Experience in Atlanta, United States by Samarah

What is the student lifestyle like in Atlanta?

Georgia State University is one of the top ten most diverse universities in the United States. You can meet people from a variety of different cultures and backgrounds. There are also
many student clubs and cool pockets in the city to hang out.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Atlanta? Is there any advice you can give?

Residing in downtown Atlanta (anywhere close to Midtown, Little Five Points, Georgia State University, Georgia Tech University, Emory University) can be pretty pricey for most students (up to 1000/month), so most people opt for university housing or rent share an apartment or loft space, though that option can also be a little expensive depending on your budget. At the apartment complexes in Georgia State, rent per month I about 740$, but due to inflation, this will most likely change in the future. Other cheaper options include typical university housing with or without a roommate, but purchasing the meal plan is a retirement.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

This depends on what area you are staying in a small which restaurant you decide to dine in. There are tons of different places to eat in Atlanta, but I often go to East Wave Asian Fusion (near Georgia State). They have more vegan and veggie options than most other take out restaurants. They also have the best bubble tea flavors.

What places would you recommend visiting in Atlanta?

The High Museum (right next to The Savannah College of Art and Design), the Atlanta Botanical Gardens (bear Midtown), The Belt Line (short walk from Georgia State University and go to Jake's Ice Cream on the way :),

Is it good to eat out in Atlanta? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Atlanta has a variety of diverse restaurants for individuals of different dietary preferences. In Atlanta, one can find farm fresh locales, vegan and vegetarian restaurants, hookah bars, tons of small cafes, Asian restaurants and typical fast food.

What advice would you give future students heading to Atlanta?

The MARTA (public transport) system is not reliable and trains often break down and cause more wait time. They are also not very clean, but more so than New York subways. Regardless, in the city, to get from one place to another, it is a pretty long walk. To travel to North Atlanta from downtown (to Alpharetta, Roswell, etc) expect high charges from Uber or make sure you have a car. Again, public transport is an option, but does not always arrive on time. It is much easier to travel from place to place through Atlanta if you have a car, kind of like in LA.