{"id":20052,"date":"2019-06-03T10:51:39","date_gmt":"2019-06-03T14:51:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/?p=20052"},"modified":"2019-06-03T10:51:39","modified_gmt":"2019-06-03T14:51:39","slug":"the-top-cultural-differences-between-global-apartment-rentals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2019\/06\/03\/the-top-cultural-differences-between-global-apartment-rentals\/","title":{"rendered":"The Top Cultural Differences Between Global Apartment Rentals"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"attachment_20074\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20074\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20074\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-France-London-graphic.jpg\" alt=\"Illustration of the famous landmarks of France, New York, and London.\" width=\"750\" height=\"424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-France-London-graphic.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-France-London-graphic-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-France-London-graphic-768x434.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-France-London-graphic-1024x578.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20074\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Discover the wonderful things that make some of the world\u2019s most famous cities unique!<\/p><\/div>\n<p>New York Habitat is proud to be a multi-national company with properties in four unique and incredible destinations: <strong>New York<\/strong>, <strong>Paris<\/strong>, <strong>London<\/strong>, and the <strong>South of France<\/strong>. Our clients often choose to rent furnished apartments because of the exciting opportunity to live like a local and fully immerse oneself in a new culture and way of life.<\/p>\n<p>However, there can sometimes be unexpected surprises along the way that come naturally with renting a <strong>furnished apartment<\/strong> in a new location! Our <strong>licensed agents<\/strong> can help answer any questions you may have about rentals in another city or country, but it&#8217;s good to be aware of common differences in the types of properties around the world so you&#8217;re prepared ahead of time. Whether you&#8217;re looking for an <a title=\"Full inventory of New York City apartment rentals\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/new-york-apartment.html\">apartment in New York City<\/a>, a <a title=\"Full inventory of London apartment rentals\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/london-apartment.html\">flat in London<\/a>, a <a title=\"Full inventory of Paris apartment rentals\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/paris-apartment.html\">rental in Paris<\/a>, or a <a title=\"Full inventory of South of France apartment rentals\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/south-france-apartment.html\">villa in the South of France<\/a>, we&#8217;re here to give you a crash course in the little quirks of each type of property that might surprise you (but we&#8217;re sure you&#8217;ll grow to love!).<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><strong>Renting in France: From Paris to the Riviera<\/strong><\/p>\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-20077\" style=\"max-width: 750px;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-20-3 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-20077 ml-slider\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_20077\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_20077\">\n            <ul aria-live=\"polite\" class=\"slides\">\n                <li style=\"display: block; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-20079 ms-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-infographic-750x500.jpg\" height=\"500\" width=\"750\" alt=\"New York Habitat infographic describing the unique features of Paris apartment rentals.\" class=\"slider-20077 slide-20079\" title=\"top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-infographic\" \/><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-20080 ms-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-South-France-infographic-750x500.jpg\" height=\"500\" width=\"750\" alt=\"New York Habitat infographic describing the unique features of Provence apartment rentals.\" class=\"slider-20077 slide-20080\" title=\"top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-South-France-infographic\" \/><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Between the metropolitan capital of Paris and the vineyards, mountains, villages, and beaches in Provence, there are multiple different types of properties you might encounter when you travel to France. This is true to the point that property types can even vary between regions, despite being in the same country!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20059\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20059\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20059\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-building-entryway-intercom.jpg\" alt=\"Image of the Paris apartment building entryway in Ternes rental PA-4457.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-building-entryway-intercom.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-building-entryway-intercom-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20059\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A typical Paris apartment building entryway, featuring an intercom for visitors in lieu of a doorman.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>We\u2019ll start with Paris, as it\u2019s known for its international tourism and is a major destination for commerce, particularly in the industries of art, fashion, and cuisine.<\/p>\n<p>Enter your Paris apartment building and the first thing that might surprise you is the <strong>lack of a doorman<\/strong>. Paris apartments are often protected by coded or intercom <strong>security systems<\/strong> instead.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20060\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20060\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20060\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-building-stairs.jpg\" alt=\"Image of the staircase in the building of Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es apartment rental PA-4133\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-building-stairs.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-building-stairs-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-building-stairs-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-building-stairs-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20060\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Paris apartment buildings are known for their staircases that give the old-fashioned buildings their character.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>You should also prepare to climb several flights of <strong>stairs<\/strong>. While elevator buildings are not unheard of, many <a title=\"Paris\u2019s stairs have an interesting history. Learn some fun facts about them here!\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2014\/12\/08\/4-things-did-not-know-about-paris-stairs\/\">Parisian buildings were constructed in the 19th century or earlier and only ever designed to make use of stairs<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20061\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20061\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20061\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-elevator.jpg\" alt=\"Image of the hallway and elevator in the building of Luxembourg apartment rental PA-4153.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-elevator.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-elevator-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-elevator-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-elevator-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20061\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Elevators in Paris were often squeezed alongside existing stairs. This red elevator in the center is fashioned in a typical compact Paris style!<\/p><\/div>\n<p>If there is an elevator in your building, it is likely to be <strong>much smaller than an American elevator<\/strong>. Plan accordingly with your luggage!<\/p>\n<p>Communal <strong>rooftop spaces are rare<\/strong> in Paris.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Air conditioning is not common<\/strong> in Paris either.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20075\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20075\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20075\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-skyline.jpg\" alt=\"Image of Paris skyline over rooftops on a sunny day.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-skyline.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-skyline-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-skyline-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-Paris-skyline-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20075\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Height restrictions on Paris buildings mean very few high-rises, but provide views of the Eiffel Tower from almost anywhere in the city.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Paris has strict zoning laws, and Paris buildings are not nearly as tall as the skyscrapers of American cities. There are very <strong>few high-rise buildings<\/strong> (most buildings are 7-8 stories maximum).<\/p>\n<p>As per the last point, there are some commonalities in French apartments that you will discover all across the country, but may be slightly unusual to international travelers. No matter where you\u2019re staying in France, you might be surprised to discover the following features.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20062\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20062\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20062\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-919-Aix-en-Provence.jpg\" alt=\"Image of bedroom in PR-919 with single-sized bed and desk.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-919-Aix-en-Provence.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-919-Aix-en-Provence-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-919-Aix-en-Provence-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-919-Aix-en-Provence-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20062\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This Aix-en-Provence apartment rental is demonstrating how the French enjoy a sunny day: by opening the windows (no screens needed)! (Rental ID: PR-919)<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Windows do not have insect screens<\/strong> as they do in many American homes. The French are accustomed to opening their windows and letting fresh air flood their homes.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20063\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20063\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20063\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-1242-Nice-bathroom.jpg\" alt=\"Image of the bathroom in PR-1242.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-1242-Nice-bathroom.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-1242-Nice-bathroom-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-1242-Nice-bathroom-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-1242-Nice-bathroom-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20063\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This modern salle de bain still keeps its traditional roots by separating the W.C. (Rental ID: PR-1242)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The <strong>bathrooms<\/strong> in your French apartment may look different than the norm in other countries. It\u2019s common for a French bathroom to be divided between two separate rooms\u2014the W.C. (or toilet) is sequestered from the <em>salle de bain<\/em>, the main bathroom consisting of a shower or tub and a sink.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20064\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20064\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20064\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-1246-Nice-kitchen.jpg\" alt=\"Image of the kitchen in PR-1246.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-1246-Nice-kitchen.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-PR-1246-Nice-kitchen-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20064\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Where\u2019s the dryer? This Nice apartment has a dishwasher and washing machine only, which is typical of the region. (Rental ID: PR-1246)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>You may have to adjust your laundry routine\u2014many French apartments also have a <strong>washing machine but no dryer<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>European buildings subscribe to a different system of <strong>floor numbering<\/strong> than those in the United States. The floor at street level is called the ground floor, and the next floor above is considered to be the 1st floor. If you rent an apartment on the 3rd floor, you can expect it to be the 4th story of the building if you\u2019re used to American numbering.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Refrigerators<\/strong> and <strong>beds tend to be smaller<\/strong> in France than in the United States. If you\u2019re a traveling couple and concerned about the width of the bed, ask if your agent can provide you with a measurement. It\u2019s the French way to <a title=\"Get a taste of local shopping at a Paris food market\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2015\/10\/05\/top-10-traditional-food-markets-paris\/\">shop from a local market<\/a> for ingredients and consume them while they\u2019re still fresh, so why not get in the local spirit and do the same?<\/p>\n<p>Be sure to review the common practices of a Paris or South of France apartment before you rent. If you have special needs for an apartment (like a physical impairment that prevents you from climbing stairs), talk to your <strong>agent<\/strong> about how you can find an apartment that will suit you. For more tips on Paris travel, you can also <a title=\"They may not be common in guidebooks, but these Paris facts are important to know\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2013\/01\/02\/guidebooks-dont-tell-trip-paris\/\">check out our guide to some often-overlooked facts about the City of Lights<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><strong>Renting in New York: Getting acquainted with your space in the Big Apple<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-20065\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-infographic.jpg\" alt=\"New York Habitat infographic describing the unique features of New York apartment rentals.\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-infographic.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-infographic-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-infographic-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-infographic-1024x576.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>As the youngest city in our list of destinations, New York has some unique quirks and <a title=\"Learn the basics of legal vs. illegal rentals in New York City\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2014\/03\/10\/visual-tips-avoid-subletting-sharing-illegally-new-york\/\">rental regulations<\/a> that were established to combat the city\u2019s growing pains at the turn of the 20th century. Even with the advent of more luxury and modern construction in the city, NYC still holds on to a lot of its unique trademarks (some of which are required by city law!).<\/p>\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-20078\" style=\"max-width: 750px;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-20-3 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-20078 ml-slider\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_20078\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_20078\">\n            <ul aria-live=\"polite\" class=\"slides\">\n                <li style=\"display: block; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-20081 ms-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-15804-Park-Slope-pre-war-750x500.jpg\" height=\"500\" width=\"750\" alt=\"Image of bedroom in NY-15804 with king-sized bed and decorative fireplace.\" class=\"slider-20078 slide-20081\" title=\"top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-15804-Park-Slope-pre-war\" \/><div class=\"caption-wrap\"><div class=\"caption\">This Park Slope apartment shows off some signature pre-war features: a decorative fireplace, crown molding, hardwood floors, and an alcove. (Rental ID: NY-15804)<\/div><\/div><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-20082 ms-image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-15771-Tribeca-loft-750x500.jpg\" height=\"500\" width=\"750\" alt=\"Image of kitchen in NY-15771 with open layout and island seating.\" class=\"slider-20078 slide-20082\" title=\"top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-15771-Tribeca-loft\" \/><div class=\"caption-wrap\"><div class=\"caption\">The open layout and minimalist structure of this Tribeca rental are characteristic of a post-war apartment. (Rental ID: NY-15771)<\/div><\/div><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The first thing to note is how apartments are categorized in the city. You will generally hear apartments referred to as <strong>pre-war<\/strong> (meaning it was built before World War II) or<strong> post-war<\/strong> (built after WWII but before the 1990s). \u2018<strong>New construction<\/strong>\u2019 or \u2018<strong>modern construction<\/strong>\u2019 is designated for apartments built post-1990.<\/p>\n<p>Each style has its pros and cons, so you should talk to your agent about an apartment\u2019s features and quirks to make an informed decision (for instance, air conditioning may not be available in a pre-war apartment, but outdoor space is a more common perk with pre-war buildings).<\/p>\n<p>Because the city has always been extremely densely populated, apartments may have unusual layouts to foreign travelers. <strong>Railroad<\/strong> or<strong> shotgun-style<\/strong> apartments are a resulting style from the tight space; you may have to walk through a roommate\u2019s bedroom to access your bedroom or a bathroom!<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20068\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20068\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20068\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-12939-Midtown-building-laundry.jpg\" alt=\"Image of laundry room in the building of Midtown West apartment rental NY-12939.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-12939-Midtown-building-laundry.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-12939-Midtown-building-laundry-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-12939-Midtown-building-laundry-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-12939-Midtown-building-laundry-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20068\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This Midtown West apartment building has a communal laundry room for residents.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>No matter in which style of building you\u2019re renting, know that <strong>laundry appliances<\/strong> <strong>(a washing machine and\/or dryer) are not commonly included in a private apartment<\/strong>. Your building may have a public laundry room or you may have to take your dirty clothes to a pay-to-use laundromat. If private laundry is a must for you, mention this to your agent, but <a title=\"Private vs. public laundry, and many more ways to save money while renting in NYC\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2016\/08\/30\/brokers-guide-finding-affordable-apartment-nyc\/\">be aware it may mean you have to adjust your rent budget<\/a>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20076\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20076\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-full wp-image-20076\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-fire-escapes.jpg\" alt=\"Image of fire escapes on a red brick building in New York City.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-fire-escapes.jpg 750w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-New-York-fire-escapes-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20076\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Fire escapes are a common sight on apartment buildings in New York City.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><strong>Fire escapes<\/strong> are mandatory on most buildings constructed before 1968, so if you\u2019re renting a pre-war apartment, you may have access to a fire escape from one of the apartment\u2019s windows. To learn all the <a title=\"Be a smart NYC tenant by understanding these fire escape facts\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2015\/11\/23\/5-things-know-fire-escapes-renting-apartment-nyc\/\">dos and don\u2019ts of NYC fire escapes, read our blog<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p>Child-safety <strong>window guards<\/strong> are also mandatory in apartments where there is a full-time resident under 10 years of age. Because of this, a rental apartment may sometimes have bars over the windows when you move in. You can double-check with your agent if this is the case at your rental!<\/p>\n<p>Your NYC apartment also most likely <strong>will not have shutters on the windows<\/strong>, as is common in Europe.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20069\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20069\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20069\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-17271-Williamsburg-bathroom.jpg\" alt=\"Image of bathroom in NY-17271.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-17271-Williamsburg-bathroom.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-17271-Williamsburg-bathroom-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-17271-Williamsburg-bathroom-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-NY-17271-Williamsburg-bathroom-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20069\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This typical contemporary NYC apartment bathroom features a mounted showerhead. (Rental ID: NY-17271)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Like in Paris, you can prepare for some differences in the <strong>bathrooms<\/strong> too: U.S. <strong>showerheads are usually mounted to the wall<\/strong>, not a flexible pipe that may be familiar to most French people.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s a unique bonus for NYC residents: <strong>Water bills<\/strong> are not paid by the tenant!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Rental insurance is also not mandatory<\/strong> in a New York rental.<\/p>\n<p>Of course, New York City is such a large and diverse city that there are likely to be variations in the types of rentals available, even between different neighborhoods! When renting an apartment, be sure to consider the things you\u2019d like to have the most in your rental, and your agent can help you find a space that delivers (whether that\u2019s a washer and dryer in-unit, a pre-war bargain, or something else). Of course, renting in New York goes beyond just your living space\u2014be sure that you\u2019re up to date on your <a title=\"Learn the intricate unspoken etiquette of living in NYC\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2014\/05\/19\/new-york-basic-tips-etiquette-visitors\/\">New York sidewalk etiquette<\/a> as well!<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><strong>Renting in London: Figuring out your flat<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-20070\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-London-infographic.jpg\" alt=\"New York Habitat infographic describing the unique features of London apartment rentals.\" width=\"750\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-London-infographic.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-London-infographic-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-London-infographic-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-London-infographic-1024x576.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>London<\/strong> is a grand city with a long and ancient history, but modern-day London rentals have really honed their style with a particular penchant towards high-rise apartment buildings overlooking the River Thames from <strong>Westminster<\/strong> to <strong>Canary Wharf<\/strong>, and the luxurious townhouses in neighborhoods like <a title=\"Insider secrets about the London neighborhood of Mayfair\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2009\/05\/29\/low-cost-london-mayfair\/\">Mayfair<\/a> and <a title=\"See what the locals love about South Kensington, London!\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2014\/09\/03\/live-like-local-south-kensington-london\/\">South Kensington<\/a>. You will also find that many buildings in London offer the best of both worlds: the charm of an older building, but a modern, refurbished interior.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s not to say that London apartments don\u2019t have their own sense of charm! Here\u2019s a few of the unique things you might encounter in a<strong> London apartment<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>As with Paris, <strong>air conditioning is not always common<\/strong> in London flats, although it is becoming more of a mainstay in ultra-modern construction.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20071\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20071\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20071\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1666-Chelsea-garden.jpg\" alt=\"Image of backyard garden in LN-1666.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1666-Chelsea-garden.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1666-Chelsea-garden-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1666-Chelsea-garden-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1666-Chelsea-garden-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20071\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The backyard garden of this Chelsea apartment may be fancy, but it\u2019s a more common sight in London. (Rental ID: LN-1666)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Fortunately, <strong>outdoor space<\/strong> is a lot more common in London than in New York. The city\u2019s less dense building population means balconies, backyards, and terraces are a much more common bonus feature than they are in the Big Apple.<\/p>\n<p>As is true in France and the rest of Europe, your European floors will be numbered differently than their American counterparts. <strong>Expect the 1st floor to actually be what most Americans would consider the 2nd floor<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20072\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20072\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20072\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1790-Kensington-garden-access.jpg\" alt=\"Image of living area of LN-1790 with television and doors to the terrace.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1790-Kensington-garden-access.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1790-Kensington-garden-access-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1790-Kensington-garden-access-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1790-Kensington-garden-access-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20072\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">This Kensington apartment rental is on the lower ground floor, with doors to the terrace and plenty of natural light! (Rental ID: LN-1790)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Some London rentals are on a floor called the <strong>lower ground floor<\/strong>. Often, travelers worry that this means it\u2019s a basement apartment and the unit won\u2019t receive any light, but lower ground floor apartments almost always have front-facing windows, and as an added bonus, they often have garden access as well!<\/p>\n<p>Due to London building codes, it\u2019s unlikely that you will find <strong>electrical outlets in the bathroom<\/strong>. The ordinances prohibit an outlet to be within 3 meters of a shower or bath.<\/p>\n<p>Speaking of outlets, be prepared for differences between American and English electrical plugs. London electric outlets are often a <strong>higher voltage and different shape<\/strong> than in the United States. If you\u2019re traveling to London, be sure to pack a special adapter for charging your phone and other gadgets (this and other <a title=\"Here are the basic tips that London travelers need to know\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2014\/06\/16\/london-basic-tips-etiquette-visitors\/\">London travel tips can be found here<\/a>).<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_20073\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-20073\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-20073\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1217-Kilburn-bedroom.jpg\" alt=\"Image of bedroom in LN-1217 with king-sized bed and wardrobe.\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1217-Kilburn-bedroom.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1217-Kilburn-bedroom-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1217-Kilburn-bedroom-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/06\/top-cultural-differences-international-apartment-rentals-LN-1217-Kilburn-bedroom-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-20073\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A large wardrobe in the bedroom of this Kilburn, London apartment serves as a storage alternative to a built-in closet. (Rental ID: LN-1217)<\/p><\/div>\n<p>As well as remembering to pack your adapter, be prepared that storage in London will probably be different than what you expect.<strong> Built-in closets are rare<\/strong> in the UK, with most living spaces opting for a dresser or wardrobe for clothing storage instead.<\/p>\n<p>Like our other destination cities, London has a large and diverse <strong>public transit<\/strong> system as well. To get the best perspective on any city, study the train system before you go! Knowing the transit system, or at least having a map on hand, can help you and your agent understand the best places for you to live relative to your work or school. Make sure you understand the regulations of the transit system as well (the <a title=\"Navigating the Paris metro is one thing, but be sure not to miss these beautiful stations\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2012\/08\/13\/art-metro-stations-paris\/\">Paris Metro<\/a> and <strong>London Underground<\/strong> are not 24-hour systems like New York City!).<\/p>\n<p>Finding the perfect accommodation is an often-overlooked part of planning a trip. It can be hard to find the perfect <strong>apartment rental<\/strong> (unless you have an unlimited budget), but knowing what to expect in your search can be a huge help along the way to avoid surprises. Of course, our<strong> licensed agents<\/strong> are armed with years of <strong>local knowledge<\/strong> that can help you as well. The advantage of working with an agent is having someone to answer any of your questions, rather than going it alone.<\/p>\n<p>Now that you have a bit of local knowledge too, are you ready to plan your travels? If so, <a title=\"Contact New York Habitat with any questions!\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/contact.html\">get in touch with us today<\/a>!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>New York Habitat is proud to be a multi-national company with properties in four unique and incredible destinations: New York, Paris, London, and the South&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[37],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20052"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=20052"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20052\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20084,"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20052\/revisions\/20084"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=20052"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=20052"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=20052"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}