Mini fridges, twin beds, communal showers and weird roommates are tolerable for only so long. While living in a dorm may be part of the “true college experience,” we can’t blame those who opt for off-campus housing. Here are some of the CL interns’ favorite dorm alternatives.
University of Tampa
The Vintage Loft at West End. This property is strategically located right around the corner from UT, the downtown area and Hyde Park. West End has a mixture of tenants, but most are students. Though prices are not particularly student-friendly, the complex features spacious apartments from studios to three-bedrooms, amenities including a pool, fitness center, clubhouse, and a slew of local shops and restaurants within walking distance. And best of all? It’s only a few blocks away from campus. 801 N. Rome Ave., Tampa. —Amina Jackson
USF Tampa
On50. The ideal location if you want to live close to your classes without actually being on the USF Tampa grounds. The apartments are just a short walk across the street from campus, and there’s also a nearby bus stop, a large pool and a tree-laden landscape. Apartments vary in price and style — with six options ranging from 1 bed/1 bath to 4 bed/3 bath — suiting the needs of most students. 5005 Excellence Blvd. Tampa. —Rebecca Bailey
42 North. Tucked away from the major roads, 42 North seems as if it’s hidden away from everything. However, with bus stops for USF Tampa’s Bull Runner, it’s still very accessible and close to campus as well as restaurants popular with the students (Mr. Dunderbak’s, Takara, Acropolis). These furnished apartments are available in 3 bed/3 bath and 4 bed/4 bath at more than affordable rates. 14502 Valor Circle, Tampa. —RB
USF St. Pete
Waterside at Coquina Key. Porches overlooking the bay make the approximate 3-mile commute to campus well worth it. Though Coquina Key is not exclusively for students, it has become a choice destination for many, its resident-only yacht club, tennis courts, volleyball courts, fishing piers and three oversized swimming pools creating the feeling of resort-style living on a student budget. And a study session backlit by the setting sun sure beats the fluorescent ceiling lights of a dorm. 5000 Coquina Key Dr. SE, St Petersburg. —Tyler Killette
Eckerd College
Maximo Moorings. Not even five minutes away from Eckerd, Maximo Moorings is a subdivision that provides houses and apartments for teachers and students alike. Right on the edge of the water, Maximo is a quaint neighborhood where everyone seems to know each other. Also a popular party spot on the weekends, the entertainment lasts all night long — or until the police show up, whichever comes first. St. Petersburg. —Davis Johnson
This article appears in Aug 1-7, 2013.