Navigating the Odyssey of Finding Home: A Fulbright’s Housing Saga

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Picture this: a 38-year-old researcher, dreaming of a perfect transition to Athens, only to be faced with the unexpected hurdle of finding accommodation.

As a Fulbright scholar, I assumed I would have access to on-campus residences. The reality? Campus housing was reserved for students, not scholars.

 

This pushed me into the Athens housing market. Apartments were plentiful, yet most were leased for the year, others requiring a commitment beyond the duration of my stay. Unfurnished options posed a logistical nightmare, considering my brief tenure (like the structured assembly of IKEA furniture, my work involves assembling molecules). Even with the assistance of a real estate agency and insights from fellow Fulbrighters, which proved valuable but fell short of solving the housing puzzle.

 

The advice to explore Airbnb emerged, a temporary solution suggested by those who had navigated similar challenges. I hesitated at the prospect of a short-term stay, for example 15 days during which I could find another alternative. I truly wanted to focus on work rather than juggling a housing crisis and I did not want to risk having no place to stay or ending up in a very expensive place (I have a house back in Portugal and a dog to feed!). Yet, Airbnb emerged as the only option. Days and hours spent screening listings became a test of patience and determination.

 

Just when I contemplated if my dream would be cut short due to the lack of accommodation, a beacon of hope appeared - the perfect room. Not too distant from the university, conveniently located near a bus stop, surrounded by amenities, a cozy room with a private bathroom. Without a second thought, I booke
d it, and suddenly, the path forward became clearer.

 

Note to dear readers: Clearer until I went to the USA embassy.

 

For those embarking on a similar journey, my advice: explore university housing options, get acquainted with rent prices, and consider the distance and availability of essential services. The Fulbright grant covers a lot, but being mindful of varying costs is crucial for an informed decision. 

 

Life, much like this housing quest, is a journey marked by unexpected turns. May your Fulbright adventure be resilient, fulfilling, and sprinkled with the joy of overcoming challenges. 

 

Onward to success!


 

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