Bangalore: Every year, many youngsters arrive in Bangalore in pursuit of higher education or for jobs. New paying guest (PG) accommodations and hostels are coming up in and around the city to house them. "My roommates have become my family. Whenever I have a problem or when I feel home sick, I can always count on them to cheer me up," said Deepti, a final year Arts student in the city.

Living in confined quarters makes people seek comfort in one another, build life-long bonds and find a home away from home, she said.

On the other hand, bad food and lack of basic amenities are just some of the problems faced by those in paying guest accommodations and hostels.

Finding a good hostel is not easy, as several important aspects have to be considered, including security, basic amenities, accessibility and cost. The rent of hostels and paying guest accommodations varies according to the facilities available.

The cost of hostels and paying guest accommodations may include an advance of at least Rs. 5,000 and a monthly rent of over Rs. 2,000, including electricity and water charges. Most single, young working women choose to pool resources for a paying guest accommodation or sharing an apartment.

"At our paying guest accommodation, there is kitchen facility. We also have the option of getting food from outside," said Vidha, a fashion institute student.

Pallavi, a 19-year-old student, said her hostel has a 6 p.m. deadline. "My classes end at 4 p.m. and I cannot go out for dinner," she said.

But there are hostels specially meant for working women where the rules are a bit relaxed.

One cannot expect all the comforts at such accommodations, said Sneha, another student. "I know this (living in hostels) will not last forever and it is a `milestone' in one's growing-up years. I plan to enjoy every moment of it," she added.

It is also important for one to maintain good rapport with the owner of the accommodation and adhere to the rules.

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