Translations for Roommates / Flatmates
Words and vocabulary you should know if you are looking for a flatshare in France:
- roommate : un(e) colocataire
- roommate / flatmate (slang) : un(e) coloc
- flatshare / house share : une colocation
- When is the room free? Quand est-ce que la chambre est libre ?
- How much is the rent? Quel est le loyer?
- How big is my room? Quelle est la surface de ma pièce ?
- How many people are living in the flat? Combien de personnes habitent dans l'appartement ?
- Do you speak English? Est-ce que vous parlez anglais?
- Is the flat furnished? Est-ce que l'appartement est meublé ?
- Where is it situated in the city? Où se trouve t-il dans la ville ?
- Do you smoke? Est-ce que vous fumez?
What you should know about the French Roommates:
- The French are just starting really to know what a roommate is, even if it has been done for many years amongst the students. With one big exception though, when they were sharing a flat, it was always with someone they knew before. So they were either friends or from the same family.
- The situation is changing. The rents for the flats, especially in the big cities went up, and even some people who are working, are really getting into sharing their flats, in order to spend less money and afford a nicest place.
- Now, you can find lots of ads for people who are looking for roommates, or flatshares. It is common to have someone working, and not just a student who is willing to share his/her flat. The US soap "Friends" has been a hit, and increased that desire to share and spend some good times with flatmates.
- Be aware that lots of French are still smokers, even if since the beginning of 2008, you cannot smoke anymore in the cafes and even the night clubs, forcing people to quit smoking.
- If you are looking for a cheap flatshare around Paris, do not hesitate to live outside Paris. Some areas northern Paris are not really secure though, but the rest is really okay and can be safe. It is easy to move in Paris even without a car.
- The French do not speak very well English, even the younger generation. But on the other hand, they do not mind trying, and find it fun to have an English at home, especially during the 6 Nations rugby tournement.
This help will hopefully give you a better idea of what you can expect if you do want to share a flat in France.
