Summer is a great time to make memories and enjoy new experiences with your roommates. Living with roommates can be a bit of an adventure in itself, but with a little bit of planning and creativity, you can make your summer with them even more special. Here are some tips on how to enjoy summer with your roommates.

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1. Plan a Summer Trip

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Summer is the perfect time to plan a trip with your roommates. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a week-long adventure, traveling with your roommates can be a great way to strengthen your bond and create new memories together. Choose a destination that everyone is interested in and start planning early. Look for affordable accommodations and activities that you can all enjoy together. Remember, the goal is to have fun and create memories, so don't stress too much about the details.

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2. Host a Summer Barbecue

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If going away isn’t right for you and your roommates, consider hosting a summer barbecue! Summer is barbecue season, and what better way to enjoy it than with your roommates? Host a summer barbecue in your backyard or at a nearby park. Invite friends and family, and ask everyone to bring their favorite dish to share. Set up some games, like cornhole or frisbee, and enjoy the warm weather and good company. This is a great way to bond with your roommates and create a sense of community.

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3. Have a Game Night

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Summer nights are perfect for staying in and having a game night with your roommates. Break out your favorite board games or card games and spend the evening laughing and competing with each other. Make some snacks and drinks, and create a cozy atmosphere in your living room. This is a great way to bond with your roommates and create a fun, low-key evening at home.

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In conclusion, there are many ways to enjoy summer with your roommates. Whether you plan a trip together, host a barbecue, have a game night, or try new activities, the most important thing is to create memories and strengthen your bond. Remember, your roommates can become your lifelong friends, so make the most of your time together this summer.

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-The Chillow Team

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Homes have become the new office space for a large some of people due to COVID-19. Some people are thriving from this by scheduling their own hours, balancing work with play and even saving money from transportation or eating out on their lunch break. Other are struggling from this change in their professional lives and are trying their best to stay motivated. If you are a part of the group struggling don't worry, we're here to help. Here's some ways to stay focused and keep killing it in your career!

Stick to a routine

Creating habits and a specific routine will aid in accomplishing what needs to get done. Having trouble waking up in the morning? Create a routine in the early hours like getting a quick workout in before you have to sit in front of your computer for the day. Getting dressed up as if going into the office is a great idea of sticking to a routine by reminding you of the old one. Set up an office space in your home (preferably NOT in your bed) dedicated to hard work and quiet time. Turn your phone on "do not disturb" and you'll see how much easier it is to focus.

Breaks are a good thing

If you're not feeling it, don't do it. You want to give your work 110% so if you're only giving it about 40%, walk away and come back later. Go run that errand you've been procrastinating for the past two weeks instead! Can't leave your home due to the pandemic? Blast the speakers with your favorite tunes and take a much needed dance break.

Communicate, then communicate some more

With most people not talking face-to-face on a daily basis, it's important to over communicate. Participate in those office Zoom meetings (even if you really don't want to) because it's good practice and your coworkers will appreciate it. If you're feeling stuck or confused, reach out to the people you work with and ask for assistance where needed. There's a good chance the emotions you've been feeling and the struggles you've been experiencing are very similar to your peers.

Take advantage of your situation

Choose to see the good in this change. If you used to drive 30 minutes to get to the office each morning, there's an extra 30 minutes you have to do something else (and money saved on filling your tank.) You can now sit in the comfort of your home wearing sweatpants instead of business casual clothing and yes, maybe today you decide not to wash your hair. You have more free time to spend with your roommate and your furry friend is excited for all those walks you'll now be taking them on during your lunch break.

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We hope this helps those who have been struggling with this change in their professional lives. No matter the obstacles thrown in your way, you can always overcome them! And remember; it's OKAY to have an unsuccessful day of working from home. Life happens. Just be prepared to try again tomorrow.

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-The Chillow Team

 If you are a part of the group struggling don't worry, we're here to help. Here's some ways to stay focused and keep killing it in your career!

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Last week we talked about roomie resolutions, but what about resolutions for yourself? We all start out with loads of motivation which eventually dwindles until you stop doing every new activity you promised yourself you would do. We all want a healthy, happy life. So, here’s some resolutions to help you achieve just that, and stick with it.

Budget

Yeah we know, this isn’t the most fun thing to do. But, building a better budget is what will serve you most in the long run. Oftentimes, we overlook how much we’re really spending. “It’s only a $4 coffee” turns into a $4 coffee 5 times a week. Boom! You’ve spent $20 on coffee in one week. This isn’t us bashing your coffee habits (we love our iced lattes too), it’s just putting in perspective how easy it is to spend money very quickly.

Meditate/Practice Mindfulness

This definitely takes practice, but once you make it a habit, it’s life changing. Truly. With a hectic schedule during the week, and loads of errands on the weekend, we forget to appreciate what life truly is. Take as little as 10 minutes every day to journal, say gratitude, listen to a meditation, and recenter yourself. Sometimes we get too caught up in all the things that don't really matter. Remind yourself of what does matter.

Create a cleaning schedule

Cleaning consistently is something I always struggled with, until I adopted the “just do it” attitude. No, this isn't a Nike ad, but it is seriously important and useful. Why wait to put your plate in the dishwasher if you can take 3 seconds to do it now? Soon, there’s 5 plates in the sink and you could have avoided the dirty dish pile up.  

Good luck! And remember, just take it one day at a time :)

-The Chillow Team

New Year, New Me. The infamous phrase that most people seem to live by come January 1st. There are no shortages of lifestyle changes that people vow to make in the New Year- from exercising more, eating healthier or saving money. But what about New Year's resolutions with your roommates? Anyone who lives with roommates has things to change in order to make living together easier. In this article we’re going to list the goals that you and your roommates can set to make your space the best it can be and make living together better than ever.

Make a Chore Chart

The first resolution for you and your roommates is to make a chore chart. Not only does this help keep track of whose day it is to take out the garbage, but it also helps make sure that all housekeeping tasks get completed. A lot of disagreements and arguments with roommates come from not having a set chore schedule. When you don’t make a set schedule of who does what, the other roommate(s) tend to just assume that someone else will do it, and they don’t need to worry about it. Last year, I was living with three other people. One day, the dishes began to pile up. I saw it but thought, “eh, someone else will do it.” Spoiler: No one else did it. By the time I came back home from a long day at work, I saw that the dishes still hadn’t been washed. One of my roommates got extremely annoyed with all of us, and it turned into a huge argument between the four of us about chores and responsibilities. A chore chart resolved our conflict, and was the best decision we could have made. Chore charts provide so many benefits to the house beyond just keeping it clean, not to mention making a chore chart is super simple! All you need to do is grab a whiteboard and a dry erase marker, and divide up chores by day. For example: on Monday, Josh does dishes; on Wednesday, Steven does. Say goodbye to the days of dirty dishes sitting in the sink for three days, or the shower only getting cleaned once every few months. Chore charts help to balance out all the tasks, and allow roommates to keep each other accountable for keeping the house clean. In 2022 we will not stand for messy homes!

Communicate Better

The next resolution you and your roommates should make is to communicate with each other properly.  Tons of roommate unrest and tension is caused by not communicating what you are thinking or feeling thoroughly. If you’re upset that your roommate keeps eating your food but you never say anything- tensions will only rise and you will begin to build up more and more anger at them. Instead of hoping that whatever issues you may have will resolve themselves on their own- make a goal to approach dilemmas with respect. Not only should you work at approaching issues in a calm manner, you should always strive to have difficult conversations in person. Over text, you cannot tell if another person is angry or not, and to avoid any more potential conflict or confusion it is best to sit down and talk face to face at a time that works for both of you. If you and your roommate can have a calm, mature conversation about issues at hand without it resulting in an argument, you are well on the way to living in perfect harmony.

Make time to do things together

Whether your roommates are complete strangers or your best friends, it is always important to make time to do fun activities and bond together. Many people assume that just sitting in the living room and chatting for 10 minutes is enough “bonding”, but that isn't always the case. Spending quality time doing fun activities, making dinner, and having long conversations are just a  few other things that can make your roommate relationship much stronger and fulfilling- and allows you to learn more about each other and other relationship skills you need for living with another person. Cooking or doing a DIY project together allows for teamwork, problem solving, and communication. Doing fun activities like painting or karaoke can help you learn more about your roommate and what they like/don’t like- such as their favorite colors, their creativity, or their personality. And having long conversations speaks for itself: from a meaningful conversation you can learn more about who they truly are, and struggles they might be facing- and learn how to help them through it.

In the end, roommate relationships will always have their ups and downs. At some point, someone will forget to take out the trash, borrow someone's clothes without asking, or leave the living room a mess. But by creating New Year’s Resolutions with your roommates, you can more than likely reduce these instances and conflicts immensely.

- The Chillow Team

Whether the snow is falling and you’re headed home for Thanksgiving or Christmas with the family, or you’re off on a spring break adventure with your friends and roommates, it can be stressful leaving your apartment or house for extended periods of time. Here are a few tips to secure your place before you leave and ensure you can enjoy your vacation without any worry!

Unplug, Turn Off, Turn Down

One of our biggest tips when leaving your home for a while is to unplug not only your straightener, but the toaster, coffee pot, your chargers, your everything. Not only do you need to unplug these appliances, don’t forget to turn off your lights as well. These small tasks will save you so much electricity while you and your roommates are out of the house. In addition, turn your thermostat up or down depending on the time of year. Careful though, turning it completely off may not be the best option based upon the weather at the time- you don’t want to come home to frozen pipes! Turning it down will save you a ton of money on your heating and cooling bill come January.

Go Through your Food

I don’t know what gets you all happy and excited, but coming home to a fridge full of outdated and moldy food doesn't do it for us. Right before your trip with the roommates, you should all focus on eating the food that won’t last until you return. Right before you leave, go through your cupboards, pantry, and refrigerator in order to throw out any food that will go bad and get smelly and moldy while you’re gone. It’s such a quick and easy step to ensure a happy arrival home to a clean fridge!

Secure Someone to Water your Plants and Feed your Fish!

If you have plants, fish, or pets of any sort, make sure you arrange for someone to come take care of them. There isn't much that is more stressful than trying to secure someone to house sit right before you have to leave. If this is something you need, contact a friend or family member that you trust to look over your home and make sure you remember to leave them a key. Provide detailed instructions explaining how to take care of your plants, fish, or pets.  Even if you don’t have anything inside your home that needs attention, you may consider asking someone to pick up you and your roommates’ packages and mail so that it isn’t stolen or piled up on your porch.

LOCK UP

This one may seem like a “duh” type of moment, but it goes without saying that people do often forget to simply lock up their home. Before you leave, make sure you and your roommates check your doors and even your windows, ensuring they are closed, secure, and locked tight. Consider leaving your outside lights on a timer to give the illusion that someone is home, or give a friend a key just in case someone were to need it.  

You shouldn’t be stressed on vacation. Don’t let your home be something you aren’t worried about. Happy Holidays Travelers!

-The Chillow Team

The holidays are finally here! The smell of gingerbread in the ear, the comfort of much needed family time, and Christmas movies of course! While there are countless fantastic holiday movies, we decided to break down the top 5 you must see this holiday break. Grab your festive mug, pour some hot chocolate, and get ready to have a Christmas movie marathon!

Elf

First up is Elf, of course! Will Ferrell does an outstanding job as usual, and this movie is hilarious. Family friendly too, so it won't be awkward watching with your parents, kids, and younger siblings, unlike some movies.

Home Alone

I’m writing Home Alone here, but what I really mean is Home Alone 1, 2, and 3. It’s a classic, what's not to love about it! Little Kevin McCallister truly never gets old.

The Holiday  

I absolutely have to include a Rom-com on the list. For any rom-com haters out there, this movie is a charming holiday classic, with great actors and I guarantee you do not want to miss out on any Jack Black content.

The Grinch  

What Christmas movie is better than an anti-Christmas movie?! Everyone’s favorite green Negative Nelly is a must see every holiday season.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Every Charlie Brown is truly timeless, just like Home Alone. This cute, animated movie will lead you to the true meaning of Christmas, and maybe make you appreciate the holidays a bit more this year.

Whatever you are up to this holiday season, we wish you the happiest time with loved ones.

Love,

The Chillow Team <3

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'Tis the season of stuffy noses, colds and the flu.

Is there anything better than getting into bed after a long day of work or school? Imagine coming home, curling up in bed ready for some well-deserved sleep. Finally, your head hits the pillow, and through the wall, you hear your roommate coughing throughout the night. It is pretty safe to assume that your roommate is feeling a little under the weather. Great! Now you get to listen to your roommate suffer through a cold while also doing your best to avoid getting sick yourself. Here are ways to steer clear of catching anything, especially when your roommates are down for the count.

Boundaries

When your roommate is sick, it is always in your best interest to maintain your distance. Keeping away from sick roommates can be the difference between the whole house staying healthy or getting sick. The best way to set boundaries with your roommates is before anything happens. So, when you and your roommates are healthy, we advise that you sit down together and figure out what to do when one of you is sick.

In order to do that, you and your roommate(s) should sit down and figure out how you all should act when someone is ill. No one wants to get sick, and refraining from getting anybody else sick should always be a top priority. When you set these boundaries, you could suggest that your roommates stay in their room while they are sick, or if you have two bathrooms, make sure they only use one bathroom. Some very simple thoughts can go a long way, and if you really don’t want to get sick, having a small talk to determine what is best for the house is essential.

A Little Extra Cleaning Never Hurt Anyone

Germs don’t just magically disappear, and if your roommate is coughing up a lung, germs are going to be everywhere. Trying to avoid those germs is a hard task to accomplish, so bringing out the sanitizing wipes can certainly increase your chances of not catching anything. You’d be surprised with the number of germs you touch every day, so wiping down the faucet, doorknobs and the fridge door can go far for your health. We don’t put much thought into what we touch on a daily basis, so sanitizing the surfaces and getting on top of the germs is the difference between getting sick and being perfectly healthy.

Take Precautionary Steps

Getting ahead of the game, and taking the right steps to avoid getting sick is key when you are in public areas such as school or the grocery store. Washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your face is the number one piece of advice. If you’re hearing some coughing comes from your roommate, some Vitamin C can make all the difference. Having a cup or two of some lemon ginger tea can help fight off the sore throat that is knocking on your door. It can even be as simple as just drinking more water and staying hydrated. Basically, just prepare your body to fight any cold or flu. Being able to have a jump on illness will be insanely helpful in keeping yourself healthy.

It seems as though catching a cold or getting the flu is inevitable- especially when you live with roommates. Getting sick is never fun, and getting other people sick is no fun either. Talking with your roommate, doing some extra cleaning, and taking those necessary steps to prevent sickness are essential in keeping healthy. Being able to communicate between roommates makes life all the easier, so finding the right roommate who is understanding of the situation is important. With Chillow, you can find the right roommate with whom you can talk through situations like a sickness.

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-The Chillow Team

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Ah, the holiday season is upon us- and our hearts are feeling extra full.. but our wallets may not be feeling the same way. Purchasing gifts for your family, friends, roommates and coworkers can add financial stress to your busy life. Especially when you also have to purchase food, trips home, and all the decorations that go into making your home a cozy winter wonderland.  Nothing screams Christmas like a warm home with beautiful Christmas lights lining the windows, and a Christmas tree stocked full of ornaments that you and your roommates hung together on the delicate branches. Decorating the home with your roommates makes the holiday season special. Here are a few tips for decorating your house this December, on a budget.

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Reuse what you already have

You and your roommates don’t have to buy every Christmas decoration- some can be refurbished or repurposed from other items you already own. Start by finding items around the house that you or your roommates can turn into beautiful holiday decor. Even things like an old wagon, red canisters and bowls, blankets and pillows will work beautifully! Add a delicate green or red bow to old mason jars, vases, etc to quickly turn them into a whole new decoration piece.  Have a blanket or pillow that already has a pop of Christmas color? Throw that on the couch.  The possibilities are truly endless with a little imagination.

Second Hand Store, First Hand Fun

Shiny holiday displays can be so tempting to purchase for your home, but often come along with a high price tag. Believe it or not, you and your roommates don’t have to pay the big bucks to get into the holiday cheer. You and your roommates probably like to recycle and reuse items when able to reduce your waste. Second hand shopping is a great way to do this! Something you may find at your local holiday store for 50 dollars could be as little as 5 at a thrift store or second hand shop. These are always worth checking out if you are looking for lights, decorations, and ugly sweaters. Remember, you and your roommates can always add your own touches to pieces from second hand stores with some good DIY!

D.I.Y Instead of B.U.Y

Do you remember those paper snowflakes we used to make in elementary school? Turns out, our teachers were onto something. Time to get your roommates together for a fun, winter decoration making night! Unique paper decorations can work great for this time of year and only cost you and your roommates around $2! Snowflakes aren’t the only thing you can make out of paper, either! You and your roommates can make ornaments, wreaths, stars, and holiday signs. You and your roommates don’t have to stick with plain white paper- feel free to try bold paper colors, throw some glitter in there and watch your room transform. ‘Tis the season of creativity!

If making something out of paper isn't your thing, we suggest you and your roommates use ribbon instead. You can still make wreaths, ornaments, and even snowflakes out of ribbon! Don’t forget to add some pretty bows around your home or apartment as well!  Check out this  link for more inspiration on how to DIY decorate for the holidays with your roommates. Whatever crafts you choose to do, I promise you and your roommates will love it just as much as your wallets do!

Dress up your front door

Your front door is the entrance to your magical winter wonderland so it goes without saying that it needs to look the part.  Not only is it the first thing you and your roommates see as you enter your home, it is also on display for the neighborhood or apartment complex. A Christmas wreath is an easy way to add a pop of holiday spirit to your front door and inexpensive ones are all over if you take the time to look.  Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Walmart, even Trader Joes!  Dressing up your front door with leftover ribbon is a perfect alternative to a wreath and it’s guaranteed to leave your door merry and bright for all to see without breaking the budget.  

Focus on the tree

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If there was a part of the decorating process that you were going to spend the most time and money on, make it be on the green and fury thing we call a tree.  While lights and decor are beautiful, the tree will always steal the show and be the focus of everyone's attention. It is often at the center of your room and you want it to be eye popping and breathtaking. That being said, getting a tree doesn’t have to be expensive.  You and your roommates can split the cost of a six foot tree for as little as forty dollars.  If you want something smaller it will only be cheaper and there is always the option of getting a small tree and replanting it after the season. Or, get a group of roommates and friends and a permit from the Forest Service & cut down your very own tree from the wilderness!

DON’T laugh at the dollar store

The quickest and cheapest way to decorate your home for Christmas with your roommates is and always will be the trusty ole dollar store.  Stockings, lights, wall decor, wreaths, tree ornaments, you name it the dollar store has it and the best part… It's only a dollar! Everything you could possibly need to turn your home into the North Pole can be found between those four walls.  These decorations will last many years if you treat them with care after this year’s holiday season. What can be better than spending a dollar on a decoration that can be reused?

Lastly, remember it isn’t the decorations that matter

Remember that what makes a house a home isn’t what is on the walls, the furniture you sit on, or even the size of the tree you and your roommates get.  Christmas is a time to be thankful, be kind, and to focus on being present with your roommates, friends and family, not presents from friends and family. And it is most definitely not about decorations. What matters is the friendships that are formed and the memories that are made within those four walls of your home. Everything else is simply a bonus.  

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Happy Holidays!!

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-The Chillow Team

Oh the age old question! “I’m bored, what should we do?” Going home for the holidays is a mix of many emotions. It’s a blessing for some, and a curse for others. Whether you love or dread going home for the holidays and getting asked a variety of personal questions from family members, we’ve decided to create a breakdown of things to do in your hometown over Thanksgiving Break, so that you don't have any breakdowns ;)

Visit your favorite spots

I feel like this is something we often forget about. When I go home, I loom over what I ever did in high school for fun and nothing seems to come to mind since I've done it all. But, think about it. It’s been years since you’ve explored all there is to do at home. Try visiting your local downtown, taking a scenic hike, and climbing up to your “old spots”. Maybe that’s a favorite sunset spot, or a treehouse you played in as a kid. There's something so charming and homey about being back in your hometown!

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Host a Movie Night

Who doesn't love movie nights?! Guaranteed your family will love the extra time they have with you, so what better bonding than getting cozy on the couch! I’m still in the fall spirit so Halloween movies are A-okay with me, however my roommates have moved on to Christmas November 1 and nerve looked back. Regardless, there’s plenty of fall and winter themed holiday movies to watch with the fam :)

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Try a New Recipe

Now is the time to improve your cooking and baking skills. Apple pie, cherry pie, stuffing, the options are endless. Take a trip down to the local grocery store, grab the supplies you need, and fill the house with delicious smells. Plus, you could take the load of mom and help cook some of Thanksgiving dinner!

Look at Christmas Decorations  

A tried-and-true activity that can be done many times throughout the entire winter season, Christmas decorations never get any less magical. Whether you bundle up and take a walk through the pretty lights, or pile into the car and tune your radio to the lights, this is such a fun activity to do! With hometown friends or family, this will certainly get you in the holiday spirit. There are thousands of ideas online for both activities, and if you don’t mind the mess, do both! Gather the roommates for a trip to a grocery store or the local market and begin the crafts!

Whatever your plans are for Thanksgiving, it’s hard to go wrong. Whether you are relaxing with some football on TV, or taking a day trio downtown, we wish you a happy Thanksgiving filled with coziness, good food, and much needed family time <3

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-The Chillow Team

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We can all most likely think of a time in our lives where a parent, sibling, friend, or roommate disrupted our studying. The tv was distracting, their music could be heard from every inch of the house, they wouldn’t stop talking to you.  Whatever it was, we’ve all been there and we know how much it can impact our grades.  So what do we do in these situations? Let me tell you.

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If you don’t have a roommate yet:

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If you're currently looking for a roommate on Chillow, start by adding something to your profile.  This can look like anything from “current student who needs a lot of quiet time for studying” or even “prefers someone who also views studying as a top priority in their day to day life.” If having a quiet atmosphere to study in is important to you then it is definitely something to advertise.  By doing this you can ensure that the person you eventually live with is either of like mind or well aware of your study habits, which will hopefully eliminate the possibility of future problems.

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If you’ve already found a roommate:

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If you already have a roommate(s) and you’re getting ready to move in with one another, sit down and discuss your homework and studying habits.  Start by asking how they like to study.  Ask whether they prefer to retreat to their room and study in peace or if it’s okay to be talking around them or watching tv as they work.  It might be smart to agree that if one chooses to study in the kitchen or living room, any disruptions are okay but if they decide to study behind closed doors, it would be best to leave them alone.

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If you have a roommate and this is a PROBLEM…. (yikes)

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If you already have a roommate(s) and this is a major problem that's making you consider finding a new roommate, don’t give up hope just yet.  Try a couple things before looking for a new roommate and if all else fails, use Chillow ;)

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Step One: Try finding a new place to study. Coffee shops, parks, libraries are all great options for quiet and calm places where you can sit down, focus, and be insanely productive.  Not only are these places all of those things but they also eliminate the distraction of being in your own home surrounded by more tantalizing alternatives to studying like watching tv, taking a nap, or talking with a roommate.  Try this out and see if it works for you.

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Step Two: If you find that you are unable to study anywhere but your house, try removing yourself from the rest of the household whenever you need to focus on school.  Even though you may want to sit in the living room or at the kitchen table, try only doing school work in your room.  This way you have completely removed yourself from the social aspect of the house and have limited the distractions around you.

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Step Three: If neither of the above options work for you, try being honest and explaining to your roommate(s) that they distract you from your school and it has become a major problem.  Any reasonable individual should respect this and work with you to find a common ground that allows for your school work to be completed with ease.  If your roommate(s) is NOT a reasonable individual and talking to them goes horribly, horribly wrong…. see step four.

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Step Four: Go to the IOS app store and download Chillow today :)

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Sincerely,

The Chillow Team :)  

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It is no secret that there are a wide variety of places to eat in Boise, Idaho. With restaurants and food trucks scattered throughout Boise, you can get just about anything you are craving, and everything you didn't know you were craving. But, if you are like some of us, eating out can be quite the expense, and maybe not something you can afford all the time. Luckily, with such a high number of places to choose from, finding a place that is cost efficient isn't as difficult as some would think. If you are tired of leftovers again, and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, here are a few suggestions that will not only fill your stomach with food, but happiness as well.

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Lemon Tree Co.

Soup, sandwiches, and salads have never been this good, and mind you, cheap. With everything on their menu being less than $20, you not only have the whole menu as an option, but your stomach will be filled. With a 4.5 rating on Google, you know that people have been enjoying their food, and honestly the price cannot be beat. Also, they strive for healthier options, so instead of eating a greasy burger and feeling gross later,  you can have a nice healthy sandwich, and feel energized to take on the day. Located on 10th St. in downtown Boise, you can enjoy a day of shopping and a bite to eat while you're at it.

https://www.lemontreeboise.com/

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Blue Sky Bagels

Bagels, bagels, and more bagels! With 10+ different types of bagels you can top it anyway you want. Various cream cheese flavors, veggies, meats, and sugary treats. Blue Sky also provides coffee, assorted beverages and kombucha options. Getting a complete breakfast will cost you less than $10 total. A plain bagel with cream cheese will cost less than $4, and an americano will bring up that grand total to less than $6. You can even buy a dozen bagels for a little bit more than $8, and with that you have about 2 weeks worth of breakfasts right there. If you're in the mood to stroll downtown for some breakfast, this is the place to go.  

https://blueskybagels.com/index.php

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Los Betos

Los Betos has been around for a long time and continues to please its customers. The average price for a burrito is $8 and trust me when I say, they are BIG. One burrito can easily get you two meals. Also, they sell tacos, tamales, combo plates, fries, and so much more, all costing less than $10. Also, another added bonus to Los Betos in particular, are their hours. Some of their locations will close sometime between 1-3am, or open 24-hours. So, if you are hungry at any time of the day, you can rely on Los Betos being there to bring you a lot of food, at a cheap price, at any time of the day. There are 3 different locations in the area ranging from Eagle Rd., State St., and Fairview. Anywhere you are in Boise, you can find fast, great quality betos near you.

https://www.idaholosbetos.com/

These are only 3 of many places in Boise that provide great services and amazing food. That is one of the great things about here, anywhere you go, you can find something unique and in your budget. While these three places we recommended may not be something you'd be interested in, there are so many places to choose from, at many different price points. You and your friends have plenty of places to try here in Boise, and we guarantee that you will find the right place for you, that will get you the best bang for your buck. If you have the chance, we highly encourage trying one of these places, but also do your own research, because you absolutely will find a place that will become one of your frequencies.

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Here are a few suggestions that will not only fill your stomach with food, but happiness as well!

-The Chillow Team

It’s Halloween! If you’re celebrating, stay safe out there and have fun;) If you’re not trick or treating, Chillow has got you and your roommates covered. Luckily, Halloween, and fall in general, has no lack of fun and spooky activities for every age there is! Want to stay in and watch movies with your roommates? Great! Want to go out and dress up in a roomie group costume? Perfect! Let’s dive in.

Handing out Candy

Let’s begin with the most basic activity. Definitely not bad basic, and still my favorite thing ever when kids yell “Trick or Treat” at the door :’) Make sure you and your roommates stock up on all the good Halloween candy for all the kiddos and turn on your outside lights so people know they can come up to the house!

Carving/Painting Pumpkins

A tried-and-true activity that can be done many times throughout the entire fall season, carving and painting pumpkins never gets old. There are thousands of ideas online for both activities, and if you don’t mind the mess, do both! Gather the roommates for a trip to a grocery store or the local market and begin the crafts!

Host a Movie Night

Who doesn't love movie nights with the roomies?! If you’re wanting to stay in this Halloween, what better way to suspend it than getting all cozy, lighting a fall scented candle, and putting on a spooky movie! If you're wanting to hit two birds with one stone, pass out candy when you hear the doorbell then keep playin’ the movie!

Make and Decorate Halloween cookies  

Who doesn't love themed cookies?! Not a fan of baking? No problem! Grab some plain cookies and different colors of frosting from the store to make some spooky cookies! Some ideas my roommates and I have done are the Cookie Monster, the Snapchat ghost, spiders, and witches. Make a bunch of cookies and eat them throughout the week! It’s a never-ending Halloween fest woohoo!

Visit a Haunted House

Not only a haunted house, but there’s probably a haunted hayride, haunted corn maze, and more attractions in your town! You can never go wrong with a haunted activity. Get ready to be spooked and chased by clowns, zombies, and anything else you and your roommates are terrified of. Personally, I can deal with any scary creatures but NEVER spiders or snakes. Grab your warm jackets and get ready to be spooked on the scariest day of the year!

Whatever your plans are for Halloween, it’s hard to go wrong. Wishing you and your roommates a spooky scary holiday, whether it’s filled with coziness and cookies, or being chased by zombies in a haunted house. Either way, fill up and candy! Happy Halloween from Chillow and as always, room with confidence <3

It's no secret that Boise offers something for just about every person out there. There are plenty of options for people who like the outdoors, or for those who prefer to not get dirty in the wilderness. If you live here, There will more than likely come a time when you might have a friend or a family member who may not live in the Boise area but wants to come to visit. When someone comes to visit, you are going to want to show them around and take them to the best places you can. Trying to figure out those places may be a tall order because there are countless good places to take someone. If you find yourself in this sort of pickle, here are a few places we think everyone should see if they have the time!

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Albertsons Stadium

Honestly, if you have seen the famous blue field on TV and not in person, then you truly are missing out. The blue turf, believe it or not, is even bluer in person. If you have the option to catch a game on the blue, you should jump on that opportunity, because it really is crazy how well the teams' blue football uniforms blend in with the turf. There is also the Hall of Fame located on the premises as well. You have the option to see a lot of history that surrounds Boise State and truly is worth the walkthrough. End the whole outing with a quick stop at the BroncoShop, where you can buy all kinds of Boise State merchandise that you cannot find anywhere else!

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Boise River Greenbelt

25 miles of a pathway may sound excessive, but honestly, it is anything but. With the option of biking, skating, running, walking, etc. the pathway does not disappoint. Running alongside the Boise River, there are a lot of sights to take in along the way. Going on the path allows you to see just how beautiful Boise is, and with the Greenbelt extending as far as it does, you get to see a lot of what Boise has to offer. Going the full distance may be quite the stretch, but just walking for an hour would make anyone get that sense of nature that you may not know you had!

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Freak Alley

With a name like “Freak Alley”, you may get the wrong impression. Freak Alley is an alleyway between 8th and 9th street downtown, where local artists paint whatever they want on the walls. From a portrait of Jimi Hendrix made out of glass to a painting of a Twinkie and a cockroach running away from an explosion, Freak Alley does not disappoint. If you are one of those people who loves taking pictures or selfies, then you need to come here. There are plenty of paintings to snap a picture with, and anyone who is coming to visit you will remember the name, Freak Alley.

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Downtown

Downtown Boise has a lot to offer both during the day, and at night. With what seems an endless amount of stores to go into, there really is some place for everyone downtown. Unique restaurants and boutiques, miniature bowling, the state capital building, just about anything you could hope for. Nightlife, particularly on weekends can get a little crazy. Hot dog vendors litter the corners of streets waiting for the young adults to leave the bars. If you are having a friend or family member come to visit you, and they are 21+, then you need to check out the nightlife. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and dance clubs to check out, and there is something for everyone.

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Boise has been for growing and becoming bigger for quite some time now. With that growth, there becomes more and more to do around the area. You can always find something to do and find places to show your friends. If a friend or family member comes to see you, take this as an opportunity to show just how amazing Boise is!

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Do you live in Boise and need some fun ideas for things to do with your roommate? Below we have some of our favorite things for roommates and friends to do around Boise, for all times of the year. Check out our list! We hope you and your roommate have the best time exploring Boise.

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Float the river

Floating the river in Boise in the summer is so much fun! You can take a bus up the river so you don't have to have someone drop you off. You can also rent tubes so you don't have to purchase your own. 

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Visit Bogus Basin

Perfect if you love to ski, snowboard, or maybe want to learn how!

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Visit Hot Springs

Boise and surrounding areas have so many cool hot springs you can visit! Find the one closest to you and take a dip in the natural hot tubs!

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Walk the Greenbelt

The Greenbelt goes so far and has such great views! Perfect for getting outside to see nature and getting some exercise.  If you have a bike, riding your bike along the Greenbelt is also a great idea!

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Shopping at the Village 

Although The Village is in Meridian, it is still a great place to visit if you are in Boise. The village has so many options like shopping, a movie theater, and restaurants! Be sure to check out the amazing water fountain show also!

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Freak Alley

Take cute pictures and see some amazing artwork downtown Boise at Freak Alley. Then get some food at any of the many restaurants nearby!

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Table Rock

Hiking table rock when the weather's nice can be a great activity to do with your roommates! Once you make it to the top you can take amazing pictures of the valley. If you time your hike correctly you can even make sunset or sunrise for an incredible view!

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Camel’s Back

Camel's back is a great spot to visit if you love to hike or want a nice place to go for a picnic! There are amazing views for you to see and capture in photos. 

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The Zoo

The Boise zoo is located downtown across from Boise State University. They have a variety of animals for you to see and is a great location to visit year round!

The Fair

The Boise fair is a great summer activity for you and your friends! You can ride on carnival rides, see some animals, and even attend the many concerts they have all week!

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Help!!! Midterms are right around the corner! Didn’t we JUST start school?? Midterms mark the middle of the semester, or right around there, and I don't know about you, but to me that is terrifying. So, let's get through it together! Read along for my 5 best tips for surviving midterms.

Start Early

 We know that midterms are creeping up on us no matter what. So, why not start early? The earlier the better they always say, and that is certainly always true. Procrastinating has added more issues to my life than I can count. I always end up regretting waiting to do whatever it was that I needed to do and guess what!! It never ended up being as bad as I made it up to be in my head. So, my motto this summer became “Just do it now”. It’s made my life sooo much easier! And it will make yours easier too! When you have homework, just do it. When you have to study, just do it. When you have to clean your room, just do it! You get the point :)

No Distractions 

Clear yourself of distractions. I know it’s almost impossible to do in this day and age. Trust me, I struggle with that a ton. But it’s not entirely impossible! You don’t have to lock yourself in a dark room and bury your head in books by any means (do people still use textbooks?). You do however have to pick an area where you know you'll get things done. Place your phone in a spot where you can’t see it, sit by some natural light, have some water and snacks on hand, and open up that laptop. Now, there is nothing in your way except success!

Take breaks 

Speaking of snacks and water, taking breaks is just as important as studying itself. Without much needed breaks for your brain and body, studying will be much harder to accomplish. Remember those brain breaks we all took in elementary school? Turns out we still need them! The catch is to not take a break lasting a few hours (been there). A 5–10-minute break every 45 minutes to one hour of studying is great! You are the best judge of how often you need to take a break.

Stay Organized

This. Is. Crucial. It’s also hard. No one likes annotating for fun (I think?), but it is so incredibly helpful!!! Buy yourself some pretty highlighters, some colored pens, sticky notes, and you are good to go! As much as annotating sucks, I always notice myself grasping the content MUCH quicker than if I just read through the pages. Everything worth doing takes time :) Staying organized will also help you become less overwhelmed as midterms loom closer. For visual learners, annotating is heaven! Good luck!

Keep Your Routine

Like we talked about earlier, you don't have to lock yourself in a dark room. It’s actually really important to keep doing the things you usually do. Don’t stay up until 3 am, it’s not worth it the next day. Get plenty of sleep, eat three meals a day, take a walk, and drink water. While midterms are stressful, they don't have to alter your life for the week. Keep doing everything that typically makes you, you. Good eating and sleeping habits will be your best friend during this stressful time. You got this <3

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If you’re like me, you're always on the lookout for the best sunset spot. It’s the perfect date night, an adventurous night with your friends, and a perfect, peaceful evening by yourself. I find many, if not most, of my favorite memories involving finding the perfect sunset spot and just taking it all in.

Table Rock

First off is Table Rock. I love everything about this hike. Every time I go, my mind is clear from any unnecessary thoughts, and I am doing nothing but taking in all of Boise’s beauty. But don’t worry! You don’t have to hike up if you don't want to. There is a scenic drive through the backroads all the way up the foothills. While the sunset is the main attraction, the drive is a close second. You get to see all the beautifully built houses on the way up, as well as see the entire city below you get smaller and smaller. If you’re late to sunset (like I usually am), you still get a stunning view of the sun setting on the drive up, overlooking the city as the sun gleams in red and orange.

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Simplot Hill

On the way up to Bogus Basin, there is a large hill with the American flag at the top. Honoring J.R. Simplot, this perfect grassy hill gives an incredible view of the downtown Boise skyline at sunset time. In the winter, it is perfect for sledding, especially at nighttime (take my word for it). In the summer, you’ll see people enjoying picnics on the hill, children running around, and couples just hanging out. This is definitely a place to see.

Boise Train Depot 

Built in 1925, the purpose of the train depot was to be a train station centered right in the city. Tourists and locals alike often don’t realize that the entire depot is open to visitors during regular business hours. The stunning bell tower has an elevator that will take you right up to see the beautiful city views all the way down Capital. Watch the sunset go over the mountains while exploring a historic site all at the same time!

8th Street Trailhead 

When I first moved to Boise for college and heard about 8th Street being a popular sunset spot, I was confused to say the least. “Isn’t that the trendy and entertaining strip of downtown Boise?” Yes! But what I found out was if you follow 8th Street north into the foothills, you’ll reach a gravel road. Follow the trail up and you will reach the stunning lookout spot, called the 8th Street Trailhead. This spot is as popular as the 8th street strip, so be ready to see many cars. Regardless, this is an amazing spot to see the sun go down over the city that we call home. 

Camel’s Back Park 

Once standing at the top of the park, you quickly realize where the interesting name of this park comes from. The trails strongly resemble a camel's back with all the dips in the hills on the way up to the top. It is easily one of my favorite hikes since the trails zig zag so much that it's more fun to twist and turn than simply walk straight up. The front of the park is a steep incline, where the stairs take you right up to the top. This is a very difficult climb. Beware. If you’re like me, feel free to take the zig zag trails which curve up the side of the foothill for a much easier climb! It all leads up to the same spot at the top of Camel’s Back where you can appreciate a nice evening overlooking the sunset. 

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Being a college town, Boise offers a variety of happy hours, catering to your needs every Friday afternoon (or a Wednesday!) Bring your roommates and sit outside on the Barbacoa rooftop, or stay inside during winter at Jalapenos! Let’s break down all the happy hours you need to try ASAP.

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Dirty Little Roddy’s 

Dirty Little Roddy’s, or Roddy’s as it’s better known as, is arguably the most popular bar in Downtown Boise. The main attraction is, of course, the mechanical bull right in the middle. But more importantly, on Friday and Saturday nights, AMF’s and Fireballs are only $3! So grab your friends and head down to Roddy’s to ride the mechanical bull after not breaking your bank on drinks beforehand.

https://downtownboise.org/go/dirty-little-roddys

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Reef 

The Reef is a fascinating restaurant and bar located in the heart of Downtown Boise. With live music in an island style restaurant, this place is a must to show your parents and out of town friends. Reef offers a wide selection during their happy hour Monday through Friday, 3 to 6pm. All draft beer, wine by the glass, well cocktails, and appetizers are 50% off! The Monster Mule’s do deserve an honorable mention, although they are not a part of happy hour, sadly (they’re just THAT good). 

https://downtownboise.org/go/reef

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Barbacoa

Barbacoa is set in a stunning location, overlooking Parkcenter Pond. Their happy hour covers everything from the bar, with normally pricier drinks being $5-$9 on average. If you and your roomies get hungry while sitting on the rooftop enjoying the view, order one of the smaller plates Barbacoa offers. These are great for sharing, and although they are excluded from the happy hour menu, splitting the plate will keep you full without hurting your wallet!

https://barbacoa-boise.com

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Jalapenos

Jalapenos Bar and Grill is a must-go with their large variety of authentic Mexican food. Locally owned, this bar and grill has happy hour every single day except Sunday’s, when they are closed. Happy hour every day AND delicious food? What more could you want! Come in Monday through Saturday from 3-6pm for $6 and $5 beer, as well as discounts on all food. Come check out their menu and definitely bring your friends for those margaritas.

https://jalapenosidaho.com

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 Bardenay

Bardenay is both a restaurant and a distillery. Inside, you will find the massive area where they locally brew their own beer! Interestingly enough, Bardenay was the first distillery in the U.S. and is still a hotspot for Idahoans 20 years later. Here you will find all kinds of food and drink specials from 4-6pm Sunday through Thursday. The lemon drop martini is an excellent choice if you are overwhelmed by the vast drink menu! On Friday’s and Saturday’s, the happy hour is still from 4-6pm, but only covers drinks. In addition to all these specials, Bardenay’s Late Night Menu is available from 9-10pm on Thursdays, with Late Night Tapas from 9-11pm Fridays and Saturdays. Seriously, what more do you need?!

https://bardenay.com/hours-locations/

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We hope you and your roommates can try these amazing places soon!

• The Chillow Team

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Do you and your roommates want to get out of town for a while and go somewhere fun? Why not take a road trip to a place you have always wanted to visit? Road trips are fun but let's be honest, they can get pretty boring if not done right. Here are some ideas on how to make your next road trip the best.

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Bring Snacks

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Packing some snacks in your car before you leave will help you save time and money. You won't have to stop when you feel hungry or thirsty, and you won't have to buy a bunch of snacks along the way! By packing your favorite food and drinks you will be ready for whenever you feel like having a snack!

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Make a Playlist

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Before you leave on your road trip, make a playlist with everyone who will be in the car with you. This way everyone will get to add their favorite songs, and no one has to argue over who gets the aux. This also makes it so you won't have to listen to the radio the whole time. Don't forget to download your playlist to your phone! That way if you lose service on your drive you will still have your jams. 

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Car Ride Games

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Remember all those games you used to play in the car as a kid? Try playing them again with your roommates on your road trip, it's actually fun. Here are some ideas, but try and make your own games as well for a fun twist.

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• The license plate game: Keep a list of all the license plates you see from different states and see how many you can collect.

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• The alphabet game: Try to find each letter in the alphabet on signs starting with A. First one to Z wins!

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• Slug bug game: First person to see a Volkswagen bug shouts it out and gets a point. Whoever has the most points at the end of the ride wins.
  
  
• 21 questions: One player thinks of something and the rest of the car has to ask yes or no questions to figure out what it is. Only 21 questions can be asked and whoever guesses right gets to think of something next!

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Take Turns Driving

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Depending on whose car it is, and if they are okay with it, find a driving schedule that allows everyone to take a turn. This way the driver won't get too bored or tired while driving, and everyone will be able to help out. If it's a super long drive, make sure you get a nap in when you're not driving!

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Know your Route

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It's important that you know where exactly you are going, how long it should take you to get there, and the places you are going to stop for gas. By planning this out before you leave you will be very prepared. This means less chances of wasting time looking for gas stations or places to use the restroom! Also if you lose service you will still know where you are going and how to get there.

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Hopefully these tips help you and your roommates have a great road trip. Safe travels from all of us here at Chillow!!

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Whether you need a little pick me up, a place to get some work done, or a hangout spot with your friends, coffee shops are the perfect spot and Boise has the best. These 5 coffee shops are located across the Boise area, and are all a must try! Bring your roommate along to all these places, try them out, and get some homework done!

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Flying M Coffeehouse

Located in Old Boise, at 500 W Idaho St, the Flying M Coffeehouse offers house roasted coffee and handmade pastries. The most unique part about this up beat coffee location is that it also offers a shopping section within the shop. If you need a place to find funny, out of the ordinary gifts this is the best place to do it! The Flying M offers coffee and pastries, but also colorful socks, funny cards, jewelry, and so much more! Head down to this coffee shop to grab a snack, get some homework done, and pick up a wacky birthday gift for your roommate.

https://www.flyingmcoffee.com/  

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Dawson Taylor Coffee Roasters

With two locations in Boise, Dawson Taylor can be found downtown on 8th street, or near the Boise State University campus on S. Lusk St. This coffee shop offers fresh roasted coffee in a minimalist environment. Freshly roasted coffee is what Dawson Taylor does best! With a roasting facility at their Lusk St. locations you can be sure that the coffee they serve is fresh and delicious. Grab your roommate and head to one of their locations to study or get some work done!

https://dawsontaylor.com/ 

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The District Coffee House

The District Coffee House is located at 219 N 10th St. This coffee shop offers your typical coffee options along with a brunch menu. The modern boho aesthetic makes the space a great spot to go when you need to take a break from your everyday hussle and just relax with a cup of coffee and maybe some food! A perfect spot for your and your roommates to go to for brunch with friends.

http://www.districtcoffeehouse.com/ 

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Alchemist Coffee

Located on W. Overland Road, this coffee shop offers a great space for meeting with friends or co-workers. The welcoming environment and multiple different setting areas makes this place perfect for brunch with friends, or getting a group project done. Alchemist offers specialty drinks based on the seasons, along with beer, wine and cocktails. 

https://alchemistcoffee.com/menu 

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Hyde Perk

Hyde Perk is located right in Hyde Park. They have a great menu to choose from and would be a great place to meet up with your friends or roommates. This location is great because it is within walking distance of Camel's Back Park. If you and your roommates wanna go for a hike, get some coffee at Hyde Perk and then head to Camel's Back for a fun hike with an amazing view!

https://www.facebook.com/hydeperkcoffee/ 

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We hope you and your roommates have some new coffee spot locations to try out! From getting work done to brunch with friends these 5 locations are a must try! We hope you agree with us and try some amazing coffee!

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• The Chillow Team

Pets are great! But college is time consuming. Before you get a pet while you're in school, you should take a seat and think about what it's going to take and if you are actually ready for these responsibilities. Chillow has some things for you to consider before getting your four legged roommate!

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Does your landlord allow pets?

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The first thing to think about is, are you even allowed to have pets? Depending on where you are living you may not be allowed to own a pet unless it is a service or support animal. Before making the commitment check your lease  to make sure you wont get fined or even kicked out for having the animal. If you are able to have a pet, there is most likely a fee involved so make sure you can afford that in your budget as well!

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Do you have enough time?

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Animals are a huge commitment! Before making this decision, you should make sure you have enough time to allocate to the animal you are wanting to get. Dogs will most likely require more time than a cat, so make sure you get an animal you have enough time to care for. This includes exercise, cleaning up after they take a potty, and feeding. You should also think about what you will do with this animal if you leave for vacation. Do you have roommates that will take care of it for you, will you need to hire someone, or can it come with you?

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Is it fair to the pet?

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Animals can be a great companion to have, especially with all the stress college can bring onto someone. But before you get this pet, make sure it will be a good fit for the animal, not just you. Does a dog really want to spend all day stuck in an apartment while you are at school, or do you have the time to walk it everyday? By understanding your schedule and the responsibility needed for a pet, you can pick an animal that will have a great life in your care. 

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What will happen in the summer?

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When summer rolls around are you moving back to your childhood home? If so, you need to make sure this pet can come with you! This means your parents and their pets (if they have any) are okay with your new pet coming for the summer. If you're not going home for the summer, then maybe you will have more time without classes to care for your pet!

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Can you afford it?

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Not only is there the initial cost of getting a pet, but a lot more! You need to make sure you will be able to afford the pet, its food, toys, treats, vet bills, and payment to your landlord if applicable. If you are unsure that you can afford all these costs, maybe think about saving up before getting your furry friend. 

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You can't get a pet but you love animals?

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If you have decided that getting a pet is just not the right thing for you at this time, but you still love animals, don't worry! A great option is to find local people with animals that you can walk, or pet sit for when they are gone. By doing this you are able to interact with animals without having to get your own, and you can even make some extra cash!

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Hopefully we have helped you think a little bit more about if a pet is the right thing for you at this point in your life. If you do decide to get a pet, we hope you enjoy your new furry roommate!

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• The Chillow Team

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What’s fun about a night on the town with your friends? Not having to think…..like at all.  In order to do that though you’ve got to plan, preferably before you leave the house.  So grab your friend, roommates, or whoever and sit down, buckle up, and learn exactly how to effectively prepare for a night on the town. 

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Start preparing the day before and then eat…a lot!

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Yes, you heard that right! A good night out starts the day before and continues up until the morning after.  The day before you go out, pay extra attention to your water intake.  Drinking a lot of water in the moment isn’t going to help, you’ve got to prepare your body and ensure it's fully hydrated by the time you hit the town.  In addition to being hydrated, your body needs fuel and will process alcohol or lack of sleep much better on a full and nutrient filled stomach.  So eat your meals, all three and snack a little too because you’ll be thanking me the next day. 

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Plan for transportation BEFORE you start drinking. 

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Regardless of how responsible you feel that you are, you should not trust yourself to make important decisions when your thinking is impaired, especially when those decisions have to do with driving.  It is always best to plan your transportation beforehand.  Find a friend who prefers not to drink or will offer to abstain for the night at the very least.  In addition to this, make sure you trust that your designated driver won’t drink behind the scenes.  If you don’t have a designated driver or don’t have a friend that volunteers to be one, plan for an Uber or Lyft.  Ensure you have the app downloaded and create an account prior to leaving the house.  This ensures that when your night ends and you’re ready to head home it can be a quick and thoughtless process.  

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Watch out for your friends. 

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We don’t always make the best decisions for ourselves so it is up to us as friends to watch out for one another.  Don’t go anywhere alone, and if you have to, tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.  Make sure you each have your phones on you at all times so you can be contacted if necessary.  If your friend or friends seem to be too intoxicated, keep an eye on them and encourage them to stay away from any more drinks. Stick together and if you went together, leave together. 

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Okay okay, where are we going though?!?

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I’ll pause my safety tips momentarily to give you a list of some of the best bars in Boise that are conveniently within one block of each other, perfect for the below freezing bar crawls in the winter ;) 

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1. Humpin’ Hannah’s
2. Dirty Little Roddy’s
3. Strange Love 
4. Tom Grainey’s   
5. Amsterdam

I will now resume my tip giving in order to teach you how to Uber or Lyft in the safest way possible. 

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End of the night and you’re using Uber/Lyft? Consider these tips. 

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If you decide to take an Uber or a Lyft at the end of your night there are a couple things you can do to ensure an extra bit of safety.  When you’re notified that your driver has arrived, make sure that the license plate matches the one shown in the app as well as the make and model of the car.  Once you’ve verified this, open the door and ask the driver who they are there to pick up, make sure they are able to call you by name before you enter the vehicle. If you’ve completed these steps you can feel pretty comfortable that you are in a safe situation but if you would like to be extra cautious you can share your ride with a friend and allow them to track you throughout the trip.  

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My last two cents, I promise… 

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1. Bring a jacket (a bar jacket that you won’t cry over if it gets stolen)
2. Don’t leave your drink unattended 
3. Share your location with someone 
4. HAVE SO MUCH FUN

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Whether you and your roommates need a day to relax, or your mom is coming to visit and you want to do something fun, a girls day is the perfect solution. What else would be better than getting coffee, your nails done, brunch, and then shopping? Here are some cool places and things to do in Boise ID, in order to have the best girls day with the people you love.

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Coffee

First of all, you need some caffeine to start your day off right! When trying to decide where to go to get your coffee, you could choose from your typical chain coffee shops like Dutch Bros, Black Rock, or Starbucks, or you could try a Boise favorite like Big City Coffee, Dawson Taylor, or The District. We recommend a Boise favorite, but talk with your friends, choose a location, and get some coffee! 

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Nails

It wouldn't be a girls day without pedicures! Getting your feet rubbed while spilling some drama makes for a fun time with your friends. Luckily, Boise has many nail salon options to choose from like Hanan's Nails, Ideal Nail and Spa, and many more. Try and pick a location with good reviews and in a location close to you! Wherever you choose to go, don’t forget to make an appointment to ensure your spot at the time you want. After your coffee and pedicure, it's time to get some food!

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Brunch

Picking the best brunch location in Boise can be hard because there are so many options, but you can never go wrong with choosing the restaurant Bacon. This location has a great brunch menu! Some of their signature items include their bacon shooters (which lets you try each type of signature bacon they offer) and their Bacon Bloody Mary. Bacon also has an espresso menu for coffee lovers! Another great feature Bacon offers is outside or inside seating. Not feeling these Bacons? Moons Cafe might be the place for you. This diner style location has a full espresso menu, full breakfast menu, and is known for their famous milkshakes. Either restaurant is a great choice and there are also so many other options. Be sure to look at online menus before making your decision!

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Shopping

After brunch it's time for shopping! The Boise Towne Square Mall is a great option, but if you are willing to travel a little further away, The Village at Meridian offers a great shopping experience! The Village has a variety of store options, restaurant locations, and places to get dessert. There is also a playground for kids and a large water fountain/light show! With a castle like design, just walking around the village is a unique experience in itself that everyone would love! If you go to the village you can shop and then finish the day with dinner at one of the restaurants located near the fountains!

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Hopefully these ideas will give you the inspiration to plan a super fun girls day with all your roommates! Everyone has different preferences, so take what you know about your friends and make your own list for your friend groups perfect day out. Once you have your list, grab your roommates, mom, or friends, and have the best day ever!!

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We can all most likely think of a time in our lives where a parent, sibling, friend, or roommate disrupted our studying. The tv was distracting, their music could be heard from every inch of the house, they wouldn’t stop talking to you.  Whatever it was, we’ve all been there and we know how much it can impact our grades.  So what do we do in these situations? Let me tell you. 

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If you don’t have a roommate yet

If you're currently looking for a roommate on Chillow, start by adding something to your profile.  This can look like anything from “current student who needs a lot of quiet time for studying” or even “prefers someone who also views studying as a top priority in their day to day life.” If having a quiet atmosphere to study in is important to you then it is definitely something to advertise.  By doing this you can ensure that the person you eventually live with is either of like mind or well aware of your study habits, which will hopefully eliminate the possibility of future problems.

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If you’ve already found a roommate

If you already have a roommate(s) and you’re getting ready to move in with one another, sit down and discuss your homework and studying habits.  Start by asking how they like to study.  Ask whether they prefer to retreat to their room and study in peace or if it’s okay to be talking around them or watching tv as they work.  It might be smart to agree that if one chooses to study in the kitchen or living room, any disruptions are okay but if they decide to study behind closed doors, it would be best to leave them alone. 

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If you have a roommate and this is a PROBLEM…. (yikes) 

If you already have a roommate(s) and this is a major problem that's making you consider finding a new roommate, don’t give up hope just yet.  Try a couple things before looking for a new roommate and if all else fails, use Chillow ;) 

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Step One:

Try finding a new place to study. Coffee shops, parks, libraries are all great options for quiet and calm places where you can sit down, focus, and be insanely productive.  Not only are these places all of those things but they also eliminate the distraction of being in your own home surrounded by more tantalizing alternatives to studying like watching tv, taking a nap, or talking with a roommate.  Try this out and see if it works for you. 

Step Two:

If you find that you are unable to study anywhere but your house, try removing yourself from the rest of the household whenever you need to focus on school.  Even though you may want to sit in the living room or at the kitchen table, try only doing school work in your room.  This way you have completely removed yourself from the social aspect of the house and have limited the distractions around you. 

Step Three:

If neither of the above options work for you, try being honest and explaining to your roommate(s) that they distract you from your school and it has become a major problem.  Any reasonable individual should respect this and work with you to find a common ground that allows for your school work to be completed with ease.  If your roommate(s) is NOT a reasonable individual and talking to them goes horribly, horribly wrong…. see step four.

Step Four: 

Go to the IOS app store and download Chillow today :) 

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-The Chillow Team :)  

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Summer is just around the corner, and you know what that means. Warm weather, beach trips, and best of all- no school! Though school may not be in session, you’re probably still living with your roommates. Now that all the craziness of the year is over, you guys may find yourselves wondering, “What do we do?”. With no classes, no sorority events, no homework… You’re sure to have a lot of free time on your hands or start to feel a bit bored. That’s why we compiled a summer bucket list  to complete with your roommates. Trust us- you’ll want to do them all.

Summer Bucket List 2022

1. Go to an amusement park or fair and ride the scariest ride there.
2. Pick fruit or berries at a local field/orchard, and bake something with them when you get home.
3. Go for a sunrise / sunset swim at the beach, lake, or river.
4. Have a cocktail night where each person creates their own signature cocktail- complete with a fun name and a cool presentation. 

5. Stay up all night (because what’s a summer bucket list without it).
6. Tie-Dye your own clothes.
7. Take a day trip to somewhere in your state that you’ve never been.
8. Make your own ice cream! (So much fun, but harder than it seems).
9. Go on a bar crawl, if you’re legal… ;)
10. Make a DIY Slip n’ Slide. Trust me when I say this is probably the most fun thing on the list!
11. Start a disposable camera/polaroid photo wall at your house

12. Go camping with a big group of friends.
13. Have a water balloon fight.
14. Write letters to your future selves.
15. Have a painting day at the park.
16. Sign up for a fun run. (May as well try and get in shape over the summer). :)
17. Do something impulsive. I’m not saying get a tattoo… (But get a tattoo).
18. Go to a bonfire party/make your own bonfire.

19. Go skydiving! It’s actually *relatively* affordable.
20. Go on an adventure at night. Who knows what goes on when everyone else is sleeping?
21. Create your own drinking game. 
22. Go on a road trip somewhere you all have never been before.
23. Buy fun pool floaties and spend a whole day relaxing in the pool.
24. Attend a fitness class. (Like I said, summer is a great time to get in shape).

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25. Have a cooking night where you all work together to cook a meal! Sit down and all eat it together. This is especially fun if you make a super fancy dish :)
26. Make alcoholic popsicles. Buying them is cool and all, but making them is even better!
27. Go thrifting and pick out outfits for each other! Doesn’t have to be anything they’ll actually like… ;)
28. Have a pajama day. Stay in your PJ’s all day, have breakfast for dinner, watch movies…
29. Go sing karaoke at a bar, or have a karaoke night at home. 
30. Go to a drive in movie.
31. Have a charcuterie board night where everyone creates a charcuterie board of their choice using anything they want! (Seriously, the possibilities are endless).
32. Make your own beer die/ pong table
33. Attend a local event that you’ve never been to
34. Go see some live music! It doesn’t matter if it’s a big concert or a local band, just get out there and dance!
35. Go skinny dipping (Duh.)
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Obviously there are a lot of things on this list. However, challenge yourself to complete them all, (or at least most of them). We can promise that if you do, it will be a summer you and your roommates will never forget!

It is finally summer! Summer is the time to get outdoors, explore new things, and make memories that will last a lifetime. One of our favorite ways to make the most of the summer with your roommates is to go camping. You or one of your roommates might find the thought of going camping a little intimidating, especially if you’re not a seasoned pro: bugs, changes in weather, and even setting up a tent are all things that can make your camping experience difficult if you don’t prepare properly. That’s why we’ve put together this camping guide- so you can take on the great outdoors stress free! 

The Essentials 

There are a few things that you and your roommates absolutely cannot leave the house without if you are planning on going camping. A tent is the most obvious thing, as well as sleeping bags, blankets, pillows, and warm clothes. In addition, it’s also a good idea to bring plenty of filled water bottles if you don’t have a water filtering water bottle, since you can never be sure if there will be a water fill up station or if the water will be clean. We also recommend packing food that is non-perishable, or at least that is relatively easy to prepare/store. We detailed these essentials and more below. 

Tent- A tent that suits the amount of people you’re going with is a must. While you may think a 4 person tent means it can comfortably fit 4 people, it really means that 4 people can fit snugly inside. Think sleeping bag to sleeping bag, with little extra room. Think about sizing up your tent if possible, for a more comfortable experience. 

Bedding/Clothing- The last thing that you want is to be too cold or too hot on your trip. Look at the weather ahead of time and plan accordingly, but also keep in mind that the weather could still change. If you are camping in the summer, there is no need to bring a sleeping bag, thick comforter, and blankets. While the temperature will still drop in the evening, you may not need to pack all of these items. We recommend bringing mostly weather appropriate clothing, but bringing a few extra items in case you are too hot or too cold. 

Food/Water- While water is relatively self explanatory, food can be a bit more of a hassle. Unless you’re a fire starting expert (and that’s if open fires are even allowed at your campsite), actually cooking food can be a lot of work. You would need to get a grill and propane, and then lug it around to your campsite. Unless you have no problems getting a grill or starting a fire, we suggest packing food that can be easily stored in a cooler or just in the car. Things like fruit, cookies, crackers, trail mix, and cheese are all great options. 

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The Other

If I have learned anything from the times that I’ve gone camping, it’s that there are often a lot of smaller things that you don’t even think to bring that come in EXTREMELY handy. Things like bug spray, a first aid kit, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer are some of the more obvious “extras”. But there are still a bunch of other things that are easily overlooked that can make your experience 10x better if you remember them. We’ve listed them here for you down below. 

Other Must-Haves

• Baby Wipes/ Wet wipes 
• Hand warmers
• Spray bottle 
• Hand-held fan
• Camping Chairs
• Dishware and Utensils 
• Mosquito candle 
• Extra pairs of socks and underwear 
• Aspirin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Benadryl, etc.
• Paper Towels 
• Condiments 
• Trash Bags
• Flashlight 
• Portable charger 
• Electrolyte Packets 

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So, there you have it! An all in one place essentials list to make you and your roommates camping adventures the most fun that they can be. Remember these items and your trip is sure to be smooth and enjoyable. Now pack your bags, load your car, go out there and seize the great outdoors! 

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  We’ve all been there: waking up after a nice and peaceful 8 hours of sleep, only to realize……. YOU’RE LATE FOR WORK. You jump out of bed to get ready as fast as you can, but find that you can’t brush your teeth because your roommate just started the shower. Sharing a bathroom can be difficult in day-to-day life. Maybe your roommate takes 3 hour long showers, or leaves the bathroom so messy. Whatever the issue might be, it can be hard to say something, but it gets to a certain point where you too would like to get some hot water for your shower. Speaking up and talking about it is the only solution. Here are a few tips we suggest when you don’t quite know how to share a bathroom with your roommate. 

 Time Slots Never Hurt

Scheduling when each of your roommates will shower can honestly make the world of a difference. If you have to go to work at 9 am, you probably want to be in the shower around 8 am, and if your roommate is an early riser, that shower time might get double booked. Talking with your roommate and setting up times for when you need to be in the shower/bathroom for whatever reason can make life so much easier. Being able to wake up and not stress about whether or not you will need to wait to shower makes waking up that much easier.

Picking Up After Yourself

Nothing looks better than some dried toothpaste on the sink, or maybe even a used Q-Tip left on the floor next to the trash can. Cleaning up after yourself in the common areas of the house is crucial if you want to live in a harmonious home. No one should have to clean up after someone else. If you create the mess you need to clean it up. It’s all about respecting one anothers space, and to show this respect, the least you can do is clean up your own mess. You shouldn’t be waiting for the disaster you left in the bathroom to just magically disappear. Making sure you clean up after yourself is essential, no one likes cleaning up a mess that they didn’t make.

The Bathroom Could Always Use A Nice Clean

       Cleaning the bathroom can be a daunting task that may just seem like an uphill battle. Yes, it may not be the most fun, but the scrubbing has to be done if you want a clean space. Bathrooms can get dirty really quickly and it can be hard to stay on top of, but the clean toilet is worth time. The bathroom can never be too clean, and even setting aside some time every few days can make all the difference. Keeping up with the bathroom cleaning instead of putting it off will reduces the overall cleaning time you spend. You can clean three times a week, 10 minutes each of those times, or you can take 45 minutes once a week to clean. Not only does it keep the bathroom clean, but you also save time in doing so.

       It can be hard moving in with someone and trying to learn how to share space with them can be a task. These shared spaces like bathrooms can often go overlooked, so talking through some concerns/thoughts you may be having can make everything easier. You shouldn’t feel nervous about speaking what is on your mind and you should feel relieved that something you wanted to change, is able to. Finding respectful roommates can be hard as well, but not with Chillow. Chillow makes finding a roommate or finding a place to live easy and makes your experience stress-free. 

Download  Chillow today!

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‍By living in a place such as Boise Idaho, you get a really good understanding of just about everything that you have access to. Boise being the beautiful place that it is can bring out the want for being outdoors. Even if you aren’t the most outdoors-loving person, getting outside and soaking up that vitamin D is always a good feeling. Hiking has always been one of those really nice activities that just about anyone can do, and it is 100% free. With spring right around the corner, here are a few hiking trails nearby that are worth the walk:

Table Rock Trail

With a city as beautiful as Boise, there is no wonder that trying to get the best view of it comes with a price: hiking. A 3.7-mile round trip trail in the heart of Boise leads you through the meadowed hills with scenic views surrounding you. The trail can be as easy or hard as you choose. With the skill level of intermediate, some choose to take it up a notch by running or biking. But don't worry, the bikers have their own side of the trail to use when walkers are present. The ending result is a breathtaking experience that looks over the city of trees. But be sure to bring a windbreaker, because the higher you go, the more wind comes your way!

Stack Rock Trail

If you are in the mood for some panoramic sights and a day-long event. This is the hike for you. It is 9.4 miles long and you increase elevation by 1424 ft. This trail goes through the greenery of the trees, the creeks by the mountains, and the gorgeous spots where you can stop for a pack of lunch. This is another intermediate-level hiking trail that doesn't require much experience, but it will require some endurance to make it to the granite monolith. 

Cervidae Peak

This is a much more difficult trail if you are looking to get a workout in. This requires some experience when it comes to climbing but you don't need to worry about scaling any boulders. The hike can get steep at some points, but the main thing to take note of is that you will need sunscreen on hand. Almost all points of this trail are uncovered and given it a 4.4-mile trail the sun can easily become the enemy. But don't let all of this turn you away from getting the thrill of seeing what the Lucky Peak reservoir has to offer from above.

These are just a few of the many different trials that Boise and the surrounding areas have to offer. Any of these can be fit in to match any event. If you want to spend a day with the girls, a trip to these trails could be the right fit. If you are looking for a new workout these will definitely be the way to go. So get out there and experience what this beautiful area has to offer, before it gets too chilly again!

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It’s a bright and shiny Saturday morning, you’re drinking your morning coffee, and then you have the beautiful idea of throwing a party at your humble abode. You come up with a great theme, figure out some drinks you can have, make a playlist, think about some food you could make, but then you remember, you have roommates. Upon this realization, you might ask yourself some questions: How are they going to feel about me having people over? Do they even want a party at our house? After a lot of thought you ask your roommates, and low and behold they say “YES”. Even though your roommates were cool with you throwing a party now, that doesn’t mean that they’d be cool with a party while it is happening. Being respectful towards your roommates should always be a priority, and this should be emphasized if you are throwing a party. In order to keep that respect amongst you and your roommates, here are a few ideas we think can help:

The Music Doesn’t Have to be at Max

Music has always really been the key indicator of a party. When you think of parties, no one ever wants the music to be too quiet. While music is needed at a party, there does become a point when music becomes way too loud. If it can feel like an earthquake is happening in your room, then I think it can be safe to assume that the music could probably be lowered. Your roommate may not like shaking the walls of their room either. When it gets to a certain point, it’s not even just your roommates who could be upset, but if your neighbors are close enough, they might not enjoy this party all that much either. Some people don’t like the idea of listening to loud music after a long and stressful day. The music doesn’t have to be at full blast, and not everyone is going to want to hear it, your roommates included. Turning it down will not kill a party, in fact, it can make the party last longer.

Not Every Party Has To Go Till 2 am

If a party is fun enough, people will not exactly want to leave a party that they are having a great time at. While it can be hard to stop a large and fun party, there becomes a time in which it has to end. To be able to figure out a good time, talking to your roommates should be the first step. If one of them has something early in the morning, then it would be safe to assume that they don’t want to be staring up at the ceiling waiting for some sort of quiet. If a party starts at 9 pm, it doesn’t need to go on for 5 hours. Ending the party at a respectful time isn’t hard to accomplish, and asking people to leave shouldn’t be stressful. At the end of the day, it is your house, and wanting people to leave is not bad. Your guests should be able to respect the fact that party time is over and be able to leave with no problem. I guarantee if you end a party at midnight, both your roommates and neighbors will be very grateful.

People Who Didn’t Buy the Food Shouldn’t Eat It

After a fun successful party, you open the fridge the next morning to find all the food that seems to have gone missing. Not only are all your groceries unaccounted for, but your roommates’ groceries also seem to have met the same fate. It seems that when people come over to party, and begin to have a few drinks in them, they often times become hungry. Those same people then find themselves face-to-face with a fridge full of food, and a completely empty stomach. They are your guests, and being able to be responsible for them is expected of you. Keeping the fridge and pantry off limits should not have to be said, but some of your guests may need the reminder. Keeping an eye out on things is essential, and that includes the food. If something does end up eating something from the fridge, it is your reasonability to pay for what was eaten.

Throwing parties are almost always a good time, but it’s important to remember that you might not be the only person that lives there. Being respectful towards your roommates should be prioritized, so making sure everything runs smoothly should be emphasized. Having respect amongst roommates can be hard to find, but using Chillow can make it all the easier. Finding the right roommate who you will get along with doesn’t have to be a hard process, and with Chillow, we guarantee we can help you find the right fit. Try Chillow today!

- The Chillow Team

Let's discuss being single; it can be a roller coaster of emotions…to say the least.  It’s filled with highs and lows, extreme adventures and lonely nights and quite literally everything in between.  There are days we feel empowered by our singleness: ready to take on the world and conquer anything that dares to come our way and then there are days when it feels like no one on planet Earth could ever date you and once again…everything in between. However, what can make being single even worse is being the single roommate in a household of boo-ed up, heart eyed, boy/girl crazy roommates.    

When it feels like it’s you versus the world 

When you’re single it can feel like the entire world is happily and wholeheartedly, in love.  It feels as if every movie is a romcom, every holiday is focused on relationships, and every friend you have is taken.  I am here to remind you, it’s not as it seems and you are in fact, not the last single person on planet Earth.  Okay but just because you know you aren’t the last single human being doesn’t automatically make you feel better… So what do we do to combat these feelings?  Well first let's examine what’s really bothering you- it most likely isn’t that you’re single, it’s that you feel lonely.  With that in mind, why do you feel lonely?  Are you lacking good connections with friends/family?  Are you unsatisfied with your level of social engagement?   

Fixing it! 

So what can we do to improve this you ask, well I am going to tell you…

• Prioritize talking to your family, not just your friends.  Sometimes we forget that our family exists in that sense, we feel lonely and automatically turn to a friend but realizing you have more people than you think that you’re able to turn to can really help in those moments of loneliness. 
  

• Talk to your roommates and explain what you’ve been feeling and what it’s like being the single one.  Chances are they have no idea you feel this way AND would love to help change things.  Express your need for girls/guys nights and how much you like their significant others but need to not third, fifth, or whatever wheel.  
  

• Date yourself.  I know we hear this all the time but that’s because falling in love with yourself when you are not actively loving another is crucial.  Take yourself to get food and sit in your car listening to your favorite music while you eat.  Hike/go on walks and fall in love with stepping on crunchy leaves and listening to the birds and fall in love with every doggo you pass on your walk.  Find new hobbies that you could see yourself loving and get comfortable being alone.  Fall in love with the silence and peacefulness. Learn to say yes when you want, and more importantly no when you want because for now, you only have to think of yourself. 
  

Enjoy this time… 

Lastly, enjoy this time, you have no idea how long it’ll last.  It might be hard, it might be lonely, but one day you’re going to wake up and realize you should have enjoyed your single twenties because you will never get them back ;)

-the Chillow team 

It is no secret that there are a wide variety of places to eat in Boise, Idaho. With restaurants and food trucks scattered throughout Boise, you can get just about anything you are craving, and everything you didn't know you were craving. But, if you are like some of us, eating out can be quite the expense, and maybe not something you can afford all the time. Luckily, with such a high number of places to choose from, finding a place that is cost efficient isn't as difficult as some would think. If you are tired of leftovers again, and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, here are a few suggestions that will not only fill your stomach with food, but happiness as well.

Lemon Tree Co.

Soup, sandwiches, and salads have never been this good, and mind you, cheap. With everything on their menu being less than $20, you not only have the whole menu as an option, but your stomach will be filled. With a 4.5 rating on Google, you know that people have been enjoying there food, and honestly the price cannot be beat. Also, they strive for healthier options, so instead of eating a greasy burger and feeling gross later,  you can have a nice healthy sandwich, and feel energized to take on the day. Located on 10th St. in downtown Boise, you can enjoy a day of a shopping and a bite to eat while you're at it. 

Blue Sky Bagels

Bagels, bagels, and more bagels! With 10+ different types of bagels you can top it anyway you want. Various cream cheese flavors, veggies, meats, and sugary treats. Blue Sky also provides coffee, assorted beverages and kombucha options. Getting a complete breakfast will cost you less than $10 total. A plain bael with cream cheese will cost less than $4, and a americano will bring up that grand total to less than $6. You can even buy a dozen bels for little bit more than $8, and with that you have about 2 weeks worth of breakfasts right there. If you're in the mood to stroll downtown for some breakfast, this is the place to go.  

Los Betos

Los Betos has been around for a long time and continues to please its customers. The average price for a burrito is $8 and trust me when I say, they are BIG. One burrito can easily get you two meals. Also, they sell tacos, tamales, combo plates, fries, and so much more, all costing less than $10. Also, another added bonus to Los Betos in particular, are their hours. Some of their location will close sometime between 1-3am, or open 24-hours. So, if you are hungary at any time of the day, you can rely on Los Betos being there to bring you a lot of food, at a cheap price, at any time of the day. There are 3 different locations in the area ranging from Eagle Rd., State St., and Fairview. Anywhere you are in Boise, you can find a fast, great quality betos near you. 

These are only 3 of many places in Boise that provide great services and amazing food. That is one of the great things about here, anywhere you go, you can find something unique and in your budget. While these three places we recommended may not be something you'd be interested in, there are so many places to choose from, at many different price points. You and your friends have plenty of places to try here in Boise, and we guarantee that you will find the right place for you, that will get you the best bang for your buck. If you have the chance, we highly encourage trying one of these place, but to also do your own research, because you absolutely will find a place that will become one of your frequents.

- The Chillow Team

We all want to travel the world and experience new things. Between classes, work, and trying to save money, travelling in college can be limited. While making your dream 8 week backpacking trip through Europe come true in college probably isn’t realistic, there are some places right here in the United States to visit that are just as incredible. So, grab your roommates and get ready to pack your suitcase- by the end of this article you’ll be ready to hop on a plane to a new destination!

Arches National Park 

Located just 5 miles north of Moab, Utah,  Arches National Park is truly a spectacle of nature. This National Park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, in the most breathtaking shades of red and orange. While Arches National Park definitely gets its name for a reason, there are also many other attractions. From hiking to taking the scenic route, there are many different ways to enjoy the beauty that Arches National Park has to offer. 

San Francisco, California 

A bustling town in the Northern part of California, San Francisco is one of the most eclectic cities in the entire state. Whether you and your roommates are foodies, architecture buffs, ocean lovers, or just want to  experience a unique city- San Francisco is the place to be. Take a walk at Fisherman's Wharf, and stop for lunch and shopping at Pier 39. From there you can watch the sea lions that love to sun themselves on the docks, and visit the Aquarium of the Bay. And it wouldn’t be a trip to San Francisco without a ride on a trolley, a trip to ChinaTown, or a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t forget to take some ~trendy~ pictures with you and your roommates at the Pink Ladies or the 16th Avenue Tiled Steps. With so many fun things to do and explore in SF, you will certainly find it hard to leave!

Nashville, Tennessee 

This one’s for the country music lovers! It’s no secret that Nashville is legendary in the country music scene, but there’s more to Nashville than beer and cowboy hats for you and your roommates to explore.  Nashville is a foodie's dream- from typical Southern food to classic dishes with unique twists; it will be hard to not want to try it all. And while there is much more to do in Nashville than explore the country music scene- you and your roommates definitely should still check out some of the most notable places in America’s country music history. Once you visit the Grand Ole Opry or Country Music Hall of Fame, even those who aren't country music fans are sure to find themselves wanting a pair of cowboy boots. 

Las Vegas, Nevada

Calling all party animals! Get your roommates together, pack your bags, and Viva Las Vegas! For the 21+ crowd, Las Vegas offers heaps of bars, nightclubs, and casinos to go dance (or gamble) the night away at- just don’t spend TOO much money. And while Vegas is surely famous for its nightlife, there are plenty of other things to do even if you’re not of drinking age. Catch a live show like Cirque du Soleil, visit the Adventuredome Theme Park, or even just stroll around on the strip. The possibilities are endless in Vegas- and you’ll find yourself wanting to come back again and again. 

Laguna Beach, California

This one is for the beach bums and the sunshine lovers: Laguna Beach! Known for the crystal clear waters and laid back vibe, this town is paradise for any outdoor lovers. Grab a smoothie for breakfast at a local shop, then hit the beach to catch some waves and rays of sunshine. After a full day of soaking up sun at the beach, head back into town to peruse the shopping district. Laguna is also popular for the art galleries there, so when you and your roommates are ready to try something new, definitely make sure to check one of them out. Laguna Beach is also just about an hour away from both Los Angeles and San Diego, so you can always take a day trip to one of those beautiful cities also! 

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So what are you waiting for? Jump in the car or hop on a plane and get ready for an amazing experience at one of these beautiful places. We promise you won’t regret going, and you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime. Happy traveling!

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- The Chillow Team

Security deposits- both a blessing and a curse. Do you know someone who has unfairly lost their security deposit? Or have you been cheated of your security deposit because of something your roommate did? As young adults, we want to save every penny of a security deposit. Here are some ways to ensure that you see your money again! 

Step 1: Move-in Inspection

It is very important that you and anyone you’re living with pay close attention to anything unusual, damaged, or stained in the house during the initial inspection. The landlord should also point out anything that doesn’t work properly or needs to be fixed in the home inspection. However, as tenets, it is also you and your roommates’ responsibility to make sure everyone is on the same page. Don’t be afraid to take pictures or make notes of anything in the house to reference in case of future confusion about when/how something happened. 

Step 2: Leave time for repairs

Procrastinators: THIS IS FOR YOU! Give yourself enough time to repair any damages prior to the last week of living in your home or apartment. Simple repairs might take longer than expected to fix. And remember to always communicate with your landlord when incidents happen. If some paint comes off while moving your furniture in, unfortunately, it is your responsibility to make sure that paint gets back on the wall. It seems like an easy task that will be easy to “do later”, but you’ll be happy you did earlier rather than later. Don’t be afraid to ask your landlord to complete any tasks around the house that are within reason. It is better to have them do a task than you doing it incorrectly! 

Step 3: Give proper notice of moving out

A landlord can keep deposits if a tenant doesn’t follow the guidelines of the lease. This can include home upkeep, utilities, and the moving out process. While life can get hectic and plans may change, a signed lease is something that needs to be followed in order to keep your deposit. As mentioned earlier, communication with the landlord is the most important part of keeping it. 

That few hundred dollars you put down for your security deposit many months ago can really help you in the long run. Keeping that money can be difficult because mistakes happen, but fixing that mistake can save you all that money. 

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-The Chillow Team

What are some things you have on your bucket list? Most people dream of traveling, trying new foods, hobbies or activities. From skiing in the Alps to scuba diving with sharks, there’s no shortage of things that people want to complete before they die. But how many of your bucket list activities occur at night? That day trip adventure you’ve been dreaming of? Try it in the dark! Pinterest reports that “the most memorable adventures will happen after sundown in 2022.” While some adventures may be better suited for the daylight hours, there’s plenty of things to do at night (near and far) that will make for some of the best memories of your life. So grab your roommates, friends, spouse,  whoever- and buckle up. We’re making night moves.

Night Time Road Trip

A road trip at night is perhaps one of the easiest adventures to take after sundown, and is a surefire way to make memories of a lifetime. Think of somewhere you’ve always wanted to go, within a few hours of where you live. It can be anything- another city, a natural landmark, or just a drive you’ve always wanted to take. Grab your roommates and  some snacks, and embark on your mission. No matter your destination, you’re sure to have quite the adventure getting there. Night time means less traffic (so you can reach your destination sooner), and less distractions (so you can chit chat and bond with your roommates even more). One of my favorite memories of taking a night time road trip with my friends was the amount of laughs that we shared, and the new discoveries we made along the way. We left at 11pm to drive to Oregon, for no reason other than we just wanted to drive across a state border. Along the way we sang throwback songs and pretended like we were on American Idol, and played road trip games that had us all laughing hysterically in our seats. At some point in our drive we decided we were all hungry, and our adventure led us to a little 24 hour diner that (surprisingly) had really good food. Our road trip took us just a few hours, but we got back from that trip feeling closer than we ever had before. It’s not all fun and games though- safety first. Make sure that everyone is well rested, you have the ability to get help in an emergency, and have food and water. We don’t want any car accidents or other unforeseen circumstances hindering the amazing memories that you can make. 

The Beach At Night

Another fan favorite, visiting a beach at night is a completely different experience than visiting during the day. In the sun soaked atmosphere of a typical beach day, you’ll have vendors, families, food trucks, and loud music every way your turn. Of course this is a lot of fun (and who doesn’t want to get their tan on!??), but visiting the sandy shores at night brings something completely different. Whether you live right next to a beach, or are taking a vacation- make sure to stay up late one night and make an adventure out of exploring the beach after sundown. Start off by watching the sun set over the crystal waves, and then build a bonfire and roast marshmallows for s’mores. Once the fire fizzles out, take a moment to walk down to the tide and just sit there in the silence. No noise of other people, just you, your friends, and the waves crashing. If you’re brave enough, maybe you’ll decide to go for a little midnight swim. Just don’t get eaten by sharks! If you’re extremely lucky, you may be able to see the phenomenon of bioluminescence. Bioluminescence is absolutely breathtaking, but there is no way to know exactly when it will happen. I have visited the beach at night numerous times, and it is truly almost a surreal experience. With no sounds from the rest of the world, you are truly at one with nature. One of the best memories I have was playing beach volleyball at sundown with some of my best friends. Right as the sun began to set, we raced down the beach and into the water- jumping in fully clothed. We dove under the waves, in awe of the way that the ocean had transformed from a beautiful blue to the most stunning shades of pink and orange. Our fun was interrupted when the lifeguards called at us to get out of the water…. Instead of letting that spoil our night, we got out of the ocean and built a fire. We talked and laughed and learned even more about each other. It felt like minutes that we were there, but it was probably really more like hours. Now that you know all that you can do, and the amazing experiences you can have- what are you waiting for? Book a plane ticket, walk down the street, or drive your car to the beach after sunset- I promise you won’t regret it.  

I truly believe that no matter where you go, the hours between sunset and sunrise bring some sort of magic. While it may seem contradictory, the absence of light allows you to see the places that you are visiting in a new and special light. From tiny 24 hour establishments that you usually would look right over, to a smaller range of activities available that you usually might not even think twice about doing during the day- you are sure to have a new and life changing experience whether you are on the beaches of Mexico at night, or in a tiny little scenic town in the country. My suggestion for roommates, friends, and family alike is to take at least one midnight trip in 2022, and just let the night take you where it wants to take you. I promise that you won’t regret it. 

-The Chillow Team

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We live in a time when taking care of yourself is not only okay, but encouraged.  If there is one trend I am here for, it is taking time to fall in love with yourself.  While there is an abundance of ways in which you could do this, one is making sure your mind and body are in the best health possible.  One of the many ways you can do this is by exercising.  So here are my top four tips and tricks to having an active and healthy 2022. 

Find a way to stay accountable 

One of the most important things in terms of physical health is making sure you are held accountable for keeping up with your goals.  It is so easy to convince yourself that you’re too tired, don’t have time, or that you deserve another day off.  The best way to ensure you’re sticking to your workout schedule is by finding a way to stay accountable that works for you.  Get a workout buddy (AKA your roommate), someone who goes with you, makes the workout more fun, convinces you to go when you don’t want to, or simply makes you less likely to cancel for fear of having to tell them.  You could also get an apple watch or fitbit, these smartwatches allow you to set your own personal goals and motivate you in fun ways to reach them, having a constant reminder on your watch that you have fulfilled X amount of your goal so far.    

Make it fun

We often times feel like our workouts have to look like a certain way. When it actually can look like anything you want it to.  If a workout that’s fun for you is a walk in the park, a cycling class, a hot yoga studio or anything else that is okay too because fitness does not reside in one type of exercise.  Fitness looks different for everyone and all that matters is that you’re getting up and being active. On the same note, if you have always worked out in a single way, try something new! You never know what you might end up loving, so ask your friends, your roommates, anyone you know about their favorite workout and see if it’s your next favorite hobby. 

Workout to feel good, not to look good 

Lastly, workout because it makes you feel good, not in order to make you look good.  While physical benefits are a product of an active lifestyle, oftentimes if that is what you set out to achieve you will give up when you don’t receive immediate results.  While we don’t see results very quickly, we feel them instantly.  Workout in order to have more energy, sleep better at night, have better digestion, and so much more.  The list of benefits goes much farther than your physical form and that is one of the most important things to remember. 

There are no good excuses 

Aside from the obvious in which I am not going to address, there truly are no good excuses for why you can’t get your body moving.  Go to the gym, find a roommate who doubles as a workout partner, do two fifteen minute exercises if you can’t find thirty minutes together, and for goodness sake, it’s 2022 and we’ve lived through a pandemic so I know you know how to work out at home. Get out there, get your body moving, and feel great during 2022!!!

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- The Chillow Team

Who doesn’t love walking into a room and seeing it filled with beautiful, luscious, green plants? Probably not many people. Houseplants give vibrancy and life, and can transform a room from a cold and barren space, to one that is inviting, warm, and filled with joy. While many people long to have plants in their house, they can definitely be difficult to take care of if you don’t know how to do it properly. In this article we’re going to give your tips, tricks, and suggestions on how to make all of your houseplant dreams come true. 

What types of plants should I buy?

One of the most common questions that people have about houseplants is “What type of plants are good indoors?” Depending on where you are wanting to place your houseplants, and how much care and effort you are able to put into them, there are a few different types. 

One of the most low maintenance plants that you can purchase is a Marble Queen Pothos. This plant can thrive with little light, and can withstand not being watered consistently. I myself would probably choose this type of plant, as I definitely struggle to remember to water them on a daily basis. Another great option for people who live in spaces that don’t get the best lighting is a Bamboo plant. Not to mention, bamboo is supposed to bring prosperity, luck, and good energy. Who wouldn’t want a plant like that in their home? 

Another question many college students (or anyone who lives in a small space) have, is what types of plants don’t take up too much space. One such plant is the Snake plant, which is known for growing upwards instead of out. Snake plants also have the added benefit of purifying the air, making it a great choice for those who live in compact spaces or in close quarters with others. Another great option is a Paddle Cactus. Paddle Cacti grow slowly, and aren’t very big to begin with. While they may be small, they are beautiful plants. The “paddles” are covered in little white tufts that look like cute polka dots- giving any room its placed in a little extra “pop”. 

How do I care for houseplants?

While different types of plants may require different care routines, there are certain things that are universal to keeping houseplants healthy and thriving. 

1. Water your plants as needed. Different types of houseplants may need more or less watering, so instead of going off a specific “calendar schedule” it is best to water them as you see fit. If they begin to look wilted, if the soil is super dry, or if the leaves begin to look crunchy- it’s probably time to give your plants some H2O. 
2. Prune your houseplants. Pruning helps to rejuvenate them, and allow for new life to start growing. Cutting back dead or dying leaves is also beneficial to your plant. Not only does pruning help keep your plant healthy, it also makes them more visually appealing- and allows them to not grow too much and crowd out your space. 
3. Repot overgrown plants. If plant roots grow too much and the plant has outgrown its pot, it’s time to put your plant in a new home. Make sure to use fresh potting soil when transplanting, and put the plant into a slightly larger container than before. If your plants have multiple stems, it also may be a good idea to separate them, and replant the other stems to create new plants. 

Conclusion

Now that you have a better understanding of what types of plants are good for indoor spaces, and how to take care of them, what’s stopping you from going out and beginning your own little plant garden? Not only do plants brighten up your home, but they can also help reduce stress levels, boost the air quality of your space, and make you happier. So don’t delay! Run to your nearest greenhouse or plant store, and get your Green Thumb on!

Meeting anyone for the first time can be nerve-wracking, especially when they might be your next roommate. Everyone has different lifestyles and living expectations that you might find difficult to navigate through. Here is a simple outline of questions to ask when you chat with someone you meet on Chillow. 

What type of relationship are you seeking to have with your roommates? 

This is a very important question because you need to determine whether others are looking for the same type of relationship you are.  If you’re looking for an up at 3 am baking brownies, telling each other everything, taking long drives, and having endless laughs type of friendship, you might want to express that.  If that is what you want and you end up with someone who has no interest in being friends with their housemate(s), you might regret not talking about it beforehand.  While you may end up liking your roommate regardless, you will most likely find yourself disappointed if you don’t have the type of relationship you were hoping for. 

What do you like to do in your free time and on weekends? 
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This is a big one and can make a big difference in how much you enjoy living with your roommates.  The first thing to ask is what they like to do in their free time.  You don’t want to be stuck living with someone who likes to spend everyday at home when you want a friend who will run and get coffee, go out to dinner, and is always down for an adventure.  You also wanna find out what they like to do on weekends because if you want wild nights on the town and to be up half the night, you probably won’t want a homebody who’s in bed by ten on the weekends. 

Are you okay with visitors and overnight guests? 

It’s very important to discuss whether your roommate will be fine with coming home to a house of people or whether they prefer that only people living in the house frequent it.  It is also important that your roommate is comfortable with you having an overnight guest and unless you wanna be sneaking someone in like you’re seventeen and living at home again, you might wanna just ask… 

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What time do you go to bed at night and wake up in the morning? 

While this one might not be a dealbreaker, it can still be important to talk about your preferences in terms of what time you go to bed and get up in the morning.  Maybe being on opposite schedules is no big deal but that’s for you to determine.  However it can be hard when your roommate wants the house quiet at ten and you’re a night owl who is up until one am most nights of the week.  Whether you want a party house or a household that has enough zen for a lifetime, that’s for you to determine and for you to find the perfect roommate to fit the bill.    

While I am sure there are hundreds of other questions you could potentially ask a possible roommate, these are some I suggest getting to early on in the process.  Good luck out there ;)

The Chillow app is officially launched! We’re thrilled to make our visions come to life on our new platform. Celebrate with us and read all the details of how Chillow can serve you in the future. What are you waiting for?! Get ready to swipe those fingers, head to the App Store & download today!

Swiping

Say goodbye to scrolling on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace only to see strange listings that end up being a scam. These platforms will leave you feeling tired and frustrated with the fact you can’t just easily look for roommates. Don’t fret, Chillow has you covered with our easy swiping tool. As you go through other users on the platform you can view their profile. Through this feature you’re able to see people’s lifestyles, pet preferences and reviews from their previous roommates seeing if they were actually reliable. If you like what you see, swipe right! If you want to keep searching for the perfect roommate, swipe left!

Matching

Posting a Craigslist ad searching for a roommate is so 2010. Matching with verified and reliable roommates on Chillow IS the future. We’re here to help you find roommates with a quick swipe. See someone with similar interests as you? Swipe right! If both parties feel the same, our platform will match you two. Once the match screen pops up on your iPhone, you have the option to keep swiping on other profiles or you can reach out to your potential new roomie!

Messaging

Now that you have a few matches and potential future roommates, it’s time to reach out to them. Chillow has made it easy with our messaging tool! Chatting gives you the option to get to know the other person better and see if they match what their profile says. If you need a few ideas on how to break the ice, check out our previous blog giving you all the tips and tricks on how!

Reviewing

Now for our favorite feature...REVIEWING! We’re sure if you're reading this blog you’ve had at least one bad roommate experience. Chillow is here to save you from any future horror stories. These past experiences are why we chose to include roommate reviews on our app. Providing this feature will allow users to have a glimpse into what moving in with this person would look like. It’s easy for a stranger to falsely pose online as someone they’re not. Our review feature will quickly allow you to see if they’re legit. Are you wanting to build a more credible profile for others to see? Send your past roomies a request to review you on the app!

Find a Place

If you’ve already found your roomie for the school year but are struggling with where you’re going to live, Chillow has your back with our Find a Place feature! We’re getting to the root of the issue by connecting landlords and tenants directly.
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When on the app simply swipe to the Home icon to find available spaces for rent in the area. When you see one you love, message the lister! From there you two can connect on all the details and most importantly when you and your roomie can move in!

Now that you got a glimpse at our amazing new platform features, head to the App Store and search “Chillow” to experience them firsthand. The Chillow Team can’t wait to have you all experience a better way to find roommates and housing in the area!
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-The Chillow Team

Moving into a new place is nerve-racking in itself, and adding a new roommate into the mix can make it even more so! That first interaction can seem a little awkward... but not to stress, we’ve all been there. To prepare you on how you can ease the anxiety and get to know the other person, the Chillow Team thought we would share our tips and tricks on how to break the ice with your new roomie!

Break that ice

You may be thinking in the back of your mind "What the heck are we going to talk about?" which can lead to some awkward silences. This is where the game of “20 Questions” comes to play! Yes-- you heard us right, the game you played in high school when you started talking to your crush. Asking your roommate general questions is essential to getting to know them. It can also help you find out what type of person your roommate is and what their passions are. Here are a few questions to start:
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-Where are you from?
-What is your favorite thing to do?
-Do you have any siblings?
-Are you a morning person or a night owl?
-What is your favorite food?
-What has been your favorite adventure?
-Did you have any pets growing up?
-Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
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Play “Two Truths & A Lie”

The one exception to lying: this game! This one is guaranteed to be a good time! It doubles as a fun activity and a way to get closer to your roommate. The game is pretty self-explanatory: say two things you want to share about yourself and one lie that might throw your roomie off! This game is a classic for a reason. It is used by companies, friends, and groups all around to get to know a person & to share something you want other people to know. This is your opportunity to show off your crazy past, tell a secret and have some laughs!
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Find a common hobby

...and plan to do it together! After playing both 20 Questions and Two Truths & A Lie you should have a solid idea of what your roommate is into. Pick something you mutually enjoy and ask if they want to do it together! This is a great bonding experience and can be the start of many memories together as your roommates. The added bonus is you are both doing something you love!
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Run don't walk to Trader Joes

You all should’ve seen this one was coming! You’ll be needing food in your new place and who isn’t obsessed with Trader Joe’s?! Take this opportunity to invite your new roommate to tag along! While you’re shopping through the aisles you can investigate what foods are their favorite and ones they despise. This is also a great time to plan a meal to cook together!
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Now it's time to get cooking

Who doesn’t love a home-cooked meal? The Chillow Team certainly does! Have a night where you both don’t have anything going on? Suggest cooking a meal together. Who knows if your new roomie has a special dish they love making! Cooking together is a fun activity that includes teamwork, easy-flowing conversation, and something which can make your new place really feel like home.
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Go out on the town

When in Rome...well maybe not exactly but you get where we are going with this! It’s exciting to see your new surroundings and find those cool new spots to hang out at. Doing it with your roommate is great because you guys can find your favorite place to go together in the future. While exploring you guys will be able to share laughs and create memories while roaming around the city!

Create a roomie bucket list

Want those unforgettable memories? Making a buck list together will do the trick! This is a great way to make future plans with your roommate and could be the start of a great friendship! You can ask them about all those fun things they’ve always wanted to try, places they’ve wanted to visit, any adventure they’ve wanted to go on, etc. Another fun thing to do is write each bucket list item on a piece of paper and put them in a jar. Next time your roommate and you can’t figure out what to do, pick one out and go from there!

Find a TV series to watch together

Grab a blanket and your popcorn, because watching a new series with your roommate is a fun activity while chilling at home! Take this time to look through Netflix and find something that interests both of you. If you find a series this can instantly become a routine to watch that show together. Heck, you can even plan one night of the week to cuddle up with your popcorn and indulge! This can create a tradition to do together when you’re both at home! The Chillow Team’s personal favorites include The Bachelor, Emily in Paris, You, or Outerbanks!

As roommate-finding experts, we know how scary it can be to move into a new place with someone else. Breaking through that initial awkward stage can be tough but the best thing to remember is we all have to start somewhere. Begin by asking questions about your roomie, create a fun activity to do together, and make an effort to get to know them. We hope after reading this you have an idea of fun activities and games to get those conversations started and memories created! We cannot wait to hear all about them. Best of luck!

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-The Chillow Team

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Here at Chillow, we know the horror of a drill it can be when you finally get home. You go into the kitchen and see the dishwasher is clean, waiting to be unloaded and the dishes put back into their designated home. For a split second, you think about possibly unloading it, then turn lazy and wait for your roommate to do it instead. We could go on about all the things we should be doing when living with roommates.
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Have your roommates ever left dirty dishes in the sink? When you lived with someone else and you were doing most of the cleaning? Has your roommate ever borrowed something without asking? Do they even respect your space?
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If any of the above scenarios sound a little too familiar you may want to stick around, because we’re here to start the awkward conversation about the dos and don’ts of living with others! A little roommate etiquette 101 if you will.

We could all use a little refresher on proper etiquette so without further ado, here are some things to remember when living with someone else!

Find a roommate with similar values & lifestyle

This was first on our list for a reason. When you live with someone whose values are the same, chances are they have a similar outlook on respecting the mutual living space. If you didn’t talk about your lifestyles and values before becoming roommates don’t worry, it isn’t too late! Make sure to sit down and find out what they value to better understand how they will act when living with another person.

Establishing some basic rules with your roommates

You would be surprised at how many people forget this step, but the Chillow Team is here to tell you just how important it is! Next time you’re together grab a piece of paper and write down some agreed rules to hold each other accountable. Talk about what you expect from each other, who pays for what, what is important to you etc.

Respect your roommate’s space

Living with someone means you have a fair amount of shared space. Make sure you keep your home clean and welcoming for your roommates and guests. A good rule of thumb is to leave your home in the same -or even better- way when you first moved in.

Check-in with your roommate before inviting guests

The tenants of the home should be in agreement with who is coming over. If they say no, stay true to your roommate agreement or stick to your room. As we said, it’s called a shared space for a reason.

Don’t be a food robber, eat your own!

Do we even need to explain our thoughts on this? If it is your food, go for it. If you know it’s not yours, keep your paws off. If you absolutely can’t live without eating it, be sure to ask your roommate first. The worst thing they can do is say no! Out of common courtesy keep in mind the “ask or don’t touch” rule.

Talk about quiet time & watch your volume

    What...Your roommate said turn down your music at 12 am? I know it’s a shock to some but others may need to get their 8 hours of sleep in. If this is the case, the Chillow Team recommends putting your headphones in. Respect your roommate’s quiet time, and they will hopefully do the same. Who knows when you’ll be cramming an essay due in one hour and need silence to focus?

Ask before borrowing

We all know the feeling of anger when you are trying to find something and it disappears out of nowhere. The next time you grab a roommate’s shirt be sure to get permission beforehand! And of course, out of respect, put it back where it belongs when you’re done.

Clean up after yourself

No one likes a messy house. I mean The Chillow Team certainly doesn’t! Keeping your things organized and tidy is something you should always remember. We had to leave you guys with this last tip and trick of our roommate etiquette 101. Cleaning up after yourself will keep a happy household and establish a good routine between you and your roommate.

We certainly don’t know all the answers but the most important thing Chillow knows is to be honest, respectful, and dependable when it comes to living with someone else. If you’re too scared to talk about this with your roommates, Chillow has you covered. Send this blog to them as a hint to begin that happy living environment. We are confident after reading this you can become a master at practicing roommate etiquette too!

-The Chillow Team

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Now what kind of people would we be if we didn't speak up about pressing topics?? Here at Chillow, we want to give you the best advice possible based on our past experiences and what we've learned from them thus far. It's up to your if you decide to take it with a grain of salt or treat it as valuable information for your future endeavors.

Whether you're about to be living with roommates for the first time or have already experienced living with other people but are wondering what keeps going wrong, we've got advice on some things you should know and understand before moving in with someone else.

Something bothering you? Speak up

We’re all adults here. If something is making you uncomfortable and you fail to address it to the other person, unnecessary tension can arise and the other person may have no clue at all. Once you bottle up your feelings and fail to express them, it becomes a snowball effect. Start on a positive note of being open with your roommate and continue it throughout your time living together.
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You're roommates, not necessarily best friends

Sometimes with friendship comes bottling up certain emotions to spare the other person’s feelings. While you can still do this with a roommate, there’s not as much pressure. There is a good chance once your lease is over you’ll never see this person again. If you feel the relationship isn’t positive, give it space and don’t feel the need to treat it like a friendship.
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Good friends don't always make good roommates

If only we had gotten this advice sooner.. Rooming with a good friend can sound great since you already know them and have a strong bond. But the truth is living with that person can be a completely different story. You may begin to notice their habits and not agree with them. Spending all your time together and living in close quarters may bring out their true colors. Our advice? Pay attention to who your friend is and if they would be a good roommate before making a spur of the moment decision.
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Exchange emergency information just in case

There’s a very slim chance they’ll be texting and becoming best friends with your mother. But would that be the worst thing in the world? Definitely better than them not knowing who to call if you haven’t come home in the past couple of days. We suggest exchanging your parent’s and best friend’s contact info so you don’t have to scramble if a potential situation arises.
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Compromise, then compromise some more

Teamwork makes the dream work. There is unfortunately no such thing as the perfect living situation with a roommate. Talk through what your expectations are first, then depending on what the other person says, create a solution that pleases both parties. If you’re unable to do so, take a break and revisit the conversation.
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Talk about the unacceptables

Some things cannot be compromised. For example, it’s okay to tell your roommate you won’t allow smoking in the apartment. The same goes for them asking you not to randomly come home with a pet because they are severely allergic. It’s okay to know your limits and not allow some things to happen!

Let them know if you're having people over

...Because it’s the courteous (and adult) thing to do. It’d be unfortunate if you had a test to study for all weekend and your roommate decides to throw a party. The same goes for letting them know if your parents will be making a visit so they can tidy up the place. It’s important to let each other know who will be coming to the apartment. Which brings us to our next piece of advice.

Let them know if your significant other will be living there too

...Instead of them showing up one day and never leaving. Yeah, you’d be surprised how common this one is. This can be a VERY uncomfortable situation to be in so please just don’t spring this up on someone, especially without talking about it beforehand. You guys have made an agreement and signed a lease with your names on them, not the boyfriend’s. Especially if they are not offering to pay a portion of the rent, utilities or groceries, they should find somewhere else to call home base.

Take note of your habits

There are 7 billion people in the world (and counting). We can almost guarantee the way you were raised isn’t the same as how your roommate was. You each will have different habits that may seem normal to you but foreign to the other. Just be aware of what you’re doing in your living space each day. Need an example? Not cleaning up the dishes as soon as you’re done with a meal, leaving the toilet seat up, taking three or more days to do laundry… you get the idea. The more courteous you are, the more courteous your roommate will be.

Getting roommates doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the advice from this blog and Chillow’s app to guide you through finding reliable and verified people in your area, luck is on your side! Our mission is to make living with roommates a good experience. We hope you think of this information as valuable advice and use it for your future decision-making when it comes to living with someone else. Until next time!

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-The Chillow Team

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1. No description of the place

You may be thinking the person who uploaded the house or apartment is just doesn’t know how to work a computer. We’re here to assure you that’s completely false. Do not invest your time into looking at a home when the person couldn’t put basic information up. If they were really wanting to lease the place, they would have written a description.

2. Zero or hardly any photos listed

Similar to what we’ve said above, do not waste your time. It may be in the perfect location for your work commute but the actual place may or may not be a hazardous waste site. Especially if the listing has been up for over a week, there shouldn’t be any excuse for why there aren’t photos listed. Take our advice, the place is probably a dump and not worth living in.

3. Photos are stretched

One of the most frustrating things is thinking you’ve found a great place to live and when you go to see it in-person, the apartment is half the size of what the photos made it out to be! It only takes experiencing this once to be able to tell which online photos are real and which are stretched. Don’t let the photos fool you.
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4. Windows are closed in photos

On one hand the outside yard may need some work and on the other hand, you could have a VERY close neighbor whose window looks right into yours. This is something worth asking about. It’s possible the person who took the photos may have gotten lazy so make sure you know the truth of what view you’d be looking at.

5. Rent seems too good to be true

Extremely cheap rent could mean there are major problems with the property. Your monthly utility bills could be sky-high, everything will need to be replaced as soon as you move in, or in the fine print the landlord has mentioned you not getting your safety deposit back.

6. You're unable to look at the listing in-person until signing the lease

No, just no. If someone says you’re unable to look at the place until the papers are signed, run for the hills. The hills to a new place. They are obviously trying to hide something (and potentially MAJOR issues with the apartment) and don’t want you being aware until you’re trapped in the lease.

7. All the houses in the neighborhood are for sale

This could potentially mean all the places are new, but if you do a little digging you’ll be able to find out for sure. This could mean crime rates are rising in the area and it’s not a safe place to live anymore, or something in the community is being built or changed out. If you’re able to, ask around and see if you can figure it out.

8. Odors in the house

And no, we don’t mean food. If they have a strict no pet policy but the place smells like a litter box, tell them and let them know you’re confused. If there are odors you’ve never smelled before, they could be extremely harmful. Mold could be growing in the home and you have no idea. There could be plumbing problems waiting for you to fix once moved in. Make sure you speak up about this if you smell anything off!

9. The landlord doesn't live in the same city, state or country

A landlord should live in the same area as the place you’re leasing. If you’re confused as to why, check out our previous blog, Maintaining A Good Relationship With Your Landlord. If you run into issues during your stay, they are in charge of providing assistance. If you’re living in Boise, Idaho and they’re in Miami, it’s going to be near impossible for them to help you if a serious problem occurs. Make sure you do your research!

10. The landlord doesn't provide a damage checklist when moving in

Long story short, the landlord is going to try and charge you for things you didn’t do. When moving into a new home, it’s important to take note of everything that is damaged, doesn’t work, etc. If your landlord doesn’t provide you with a checklist, take notes AND photos while moving in. Make sure they’re submitted to them and saved on your end so when your lease is up, you can still receive your safety deposit back.

And there you have it! Be sure you really look into the place you’re wanting to live in before you move in so you don’t have unnecessary stress in your new home. Good luck in your search, we wish you nothing but the best! Stay tuned for a blog in the near future talking about the most important things to look for when finding a home!
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-The Chillow Team

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You've finally found your roommate off the Chillow app and are about to put a deposit down on an apartment-- YAY! You receive the landlord's information but you're not sure how to introduce yourselves. Maybe you've never experienced having a landlord before. Are there guidelines the two of you should be following?

It's important to foster a relationship with your landlord and maintain it throughout the duration of your lease. Never done this before? Unsure where to start? Keep reading, we're here to help!

Before moving in

All tenants should introduce themselves before moving in. Get coffee or take a tour of the place you're looking at with them! With COVID-19 still an ongoing issue, an email to your landlord should also suffice. While introductions are being made, be sure to be transparent. Let them know how long you plan on living on the property, who your roommates will be, if any pets will be living there, etc. The last thing you want is your landlord finding out you weren't completely honest with them when they come by for a maintenance check.

During your lease

Here's the thing: landlords are not your babysitter nor are they there to spy and get you in trouble. Now that's out of the way, here's what you should be doing during your time living in this apartment. Resolving maintenance issues quickly before they get out of hand is important to remember! You don't want to worry about paying a large amount of money for something which could've been avoided if you had called your landlord sooner. Check ups are a good thing! If you notice problems, make a list and bring it to their attention. Be sure to make reminders for dates you should be paying rents and utilities. If you're not the only person living on the property, remember you are responsible for yourself, not your roommate. If you've been paying your half on time with no issues but you roomie isn't doing the same, make sure you landlord is notified of the situation! You shouldn't be penalized for someone else's doing.

When moving out

Once your lease is up or you decide to move out (things happen, it is 2021 after all), be sure to communicate your plan! Whether it's just you moving out or all parties involved, here's how you should follow. Most importantly, clean up after yourself. Don't leave the place a mess for your landlord or the next tenants to deal with. It will also save you a ton of money in cleaning fees. Speaking of fees, don't forget to make sure you've paid all rent, utilities and other fees. A clean home at the end of your time there equals a VERY happy landlord, and hopefully means you'll get your entire safety deposit back! And remember to give back your keys before taking off on your next adventure.
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There you have it! We hope this helps distinguish how to create and maintain a relationship between you and your landlord! As always, communication is your key to success. Until next time!

-The Chillow Team

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Let's face it: your parents can't clean up after your mess forever. Keeping a home clean can be hard and especially now with working from home, living with roommates and having a pet or two. Maintaining a clean home is less about time spent and more about creating small habits and routines along the way. If you're among those struggling to keep your home tidy, keep scrolling through our blog because we've got some tips for you.

Declutter

Simply ask yourself: do I REALLY need this? Think of the motto "less is more" for some additional inspiration. The more things you have, the more piles of stuff in your home. An easy tip to create less clutter is when purchasing something new, you also get rid of an item you already have. You can sell it, donate it or throw it in the trash. Another tip to save space (and money) is getting all-purpose cleaning supplies. This way you'll have less junk in your cabinets and a little less stress.

Make a schedule

Try sticking with a routine like cleaning the fridge once a month, cleaning your bathroom or washing your sheets every other week. When you start creating these habits over time you'll find you're not making excuses for why your house is in a constant state of mess. It could be as simple as dedicating one hour each day to cleaning instead of waiting until the last minute when you've run out of clean underwear and can't find the remote to the TV.

Live with roommates? Delegate tasks

We're all in this together! Cleaning your home should be done collectively. The good news is you don't have to do EVERY task. If you can't stand to take the trash out, offer to mow the lawn instead. If there's a task neither of you want to do, well you'll have a buddy to talk to while completing it. Don't forget to blast your favorite playlist and jam while cleaning to make the time pass by!

Clean as you go

Instead of leaving your dirty dishes in the sink and having that "I'll do it later" mentality, clean up your messes in the kitchen as you're cooking your meals. It's guaranteed to make a difference in the hygiene of your home and you won't have to worry about piles of dirt or laundry to clean up later. You also won't need to be speed cleaning right before your friends come over for game night.
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Trust us, once you start a regimen it'll be much easier to keep a clean home. If you're having trouble balancing everything at once, try one habit at a time. Start by leaving your shoes at the door so you keep that excess dirt (or mud on a rainy day) away from your clean floors. Once you've got that down, start opening the windows in the mornings and evenings to circulate the air in your home. The overall goal is to create a space you enjoy coming home to. Thanks for reading, until next time!

-The Chillow Team

Think Idaho is just full of potato farms? Think again! A once hidden secret and tucked away gem is now out in the open for all to see; Boise, Idaho is the place to be! Ranked multiple years in a row for the "Top 100 Best Places to Live" and the Treasure Valley placing in the "Top 10 Fastest Growing Cities in America," Idaho as a whole has had a huge shift in population. If you were to drive on the freeway, head downtown or dare getting on Eagle Road, what was once strictly 1A license plates are now flooded with different area codes and states from people coming to the City of Trees.

For those who haven't had the opportunity to visit this wonderful city, we've highlighted some key parts as to what makes this place our Idahome.

Mountains in your backyard! Well, sort of..

Boise is considered high desert and therefore able to have hot, dry summers and chilly, snowy winters-- giving you the best of both worlds! The Boise Foothills contain 190 miles of trails to hike or bike through. Camel's Back is a great spot to play in the park and enjoy a happy hour with your roommate on 13th Street right after. Interested in skiing or snowboarding this winter? Bogus Basin is just a short car ride away. During the summer, Lucky Peak is a hot commodity for people to go boating or camping at, and don't forget about floating the Boise River during those hot summer months! If you're looking for a panoramic view of the city, take a hike (or drive) up to Table Rock. The view is guaranteed to take your breath away.

Boise Broncos

Boise State University is known for its fans, especially when it comes to football. There's a reason it's the infamous blue turf. Petitions have been made when there's talk about potentially changing the field's color. Now don't get us wrong, we love our University of Idaho Vandals, our College of Western Idaho Otters and the Idaho State University Bengals. But there's something about the Boise community that brings that next-level energy to sporting events.

All are welcome

Boise has always had a variety of people and cultures. Did you know the largest concentration of Basque Americans (approximately 15,000 people) live here?! Located downtown, the Basque Center is a popular spot and definitely something you need to check off your list. With more people than ever moving here, Boise has become a melting pot and with more residents the more cultures, perspectives, religions and opportunities become present.
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The world is your oyster? Correction: Boise is your oyster!

With a smaller population than most other major cities, there's endless opportunity here. Although the cost of living in Boise is rising, it's cheaper than most would think. Add in a roommate and your rent is even cheaper! Some of the biggest, most well-known companies are moving to the area (does the name Amazon ring a bell?) while other companies are headquartered here; like Albertsons, Simplot, Cradlepoint (and even our very own Chillow)!

What really makes Boise stand out compares to other cities across the United States? Simply put, the close-knit community. When people are asked why they chose to move here, they usually talk about how friendly the people are and how there's so much room for opportunity and growth in the area. We hope this helped those who've never had the opportunity to visit to get a glimpse as to why we call Boise, Idaho, home.

-The Chillow Team

It's Monday and that clock FINALLY hits 5 pm; time to go home! You head to the grocery store and grab that last ingredient you need to make Gigi Hadid's famous vodka pasta you saw on TikTok the other day. You get home and assemble the items you'll be needing when you notice a few things; first, the dishes you need to use are still in the sink from your roommate's dinner three nights ago. You're missing your penne, aka the main ingredient for the meal, and your roommate drank all of your vodka over the weekend. Your roommate isn't home yet and you're starving. Chinese takeout for dinner it is.

Before you send out an angry, slightly pissed off text to your roommate or eat their food as retaliation, take a breathe and minute to think. Maybe they mistakingly thought the pasta was theirs. They drank your vodka but also could have planned on replacing it with a new bottle on their way home.

The unfortunate truth? Not everything will go smoothly when living with someone; whether they're a stranger, close friend, romantic partner or even family. When confronted with a difficult situation, we've come up with a few solutions to de-escalate scenarios that could turn into arguments or even long-term issues with your roomie.

Avoid communicating over the phone

Even though you two first communicated on the Chillow app to get to know one another, communicating when pertaining to an argument demands in-person communication and attention. We've all done it. We get the urge to communicate and it has to be now so we grab our phones and type out a text without proofreading before hitting send. Once we cool off we look back and realize it could have been reworded or even better, talked about in person. Miscommunication is more common than not when it comes to having conversations over text. We could go on about specific scenarios or reasons why but instead just take our word when we say this: DON'T confront someone over the phone.

Be proactive

When you moved in together, did you talk about whether you'd be using your kitchenware and food communally? Did you set ground rules for having dishes cleaned after being used? Some people prefer sharing groceries and splitting costs while others like using their own things. You can always refer to our previous blog here if you need help coming up with questions to figure out who your roommate is and how they act before making assumptions about their behavior. Whatever the situation may be, it's important to confront the issue once it arises instead of waiting around in hopes it'll resolve itself.

Ask questions

Instead of accusing, resort to asking questions. "Did you happen to eat my food?" is a better conversation-starter than "Why the hell did you drink my alcohol?!" and will more than likely not resort to an argument. When you ask questions, you can get a better understanding of the person's thought process of why they did something. It's important to de-escalate situations if and when possible, especially if this is the first time something like this has happened.
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Work together instead of against one another

It is 2020 after all. We've all dealt with our own hardships this year, and some more than others. Be understanding and compassionate even when it's difficult. Some people are having financial problems and may be concerned about their living arrangements or amount of money they are able to spend on food. Before coming to conclusions about situations, remember to listen carefully to the other person because if the roles were reversed, you'd want them to do the same. At one point this person stood out to you on the Chillow app and you were both interested in living together, remember?! You can get through this!

Remember no living situation will be perfect, each person will do things differently than the other and that is normal! Take time for yourself but also try spending quality time with your roommate. It's an easy way to get to know each other better and can benefit in the long run. An who knows, you may end up more alike than you think. You won't know if you don't try! We hope this helped you think of ways to solve or even avoid an argument that may arise with your roomie in the future. Best of luck and cheers!

-The Chillow Team

So you've found the perfect candidate on the Chillow app to potentially be your roommate. Now what? I mean, you could make plans to move right in with one another with no hesitation or questions asked. This might be the best person and option you'll come across. It seems like it was meant to be, right? You meet virtually or in person, plan where to live, sign the papers and you're officially roommates. YAY!

Now fast forward three months... Your home is a mess, there's some rando passed out on the couch, dishes in the sink are piling up and that so-called perfect roommate you found? Well they forgot to fill the Brita back up and put it in the fridge. Sound familiar?

While this could make for a great first novel idea or contribution to your next stand-up attempt at Open Mic Night, you'd rather not have to deal with this, ESPECIALLY when it all could have been avoided. How? We've come up with 10 questions you should be asking your potential new roommate, preferable before the lease is signed.

1. What is your daily routine?

This is a great opportunity for the both of you to find out how often you'll be at home on a daily basis, if you'll be an early worm or a night owl, if they work full-time, or even at all. LOL

2. What do you enjoy doing on the weekends?

Asking what people like to do in their free time can help identify if the both of you have similar interests. You'll easily be able to identify if they'll be at home, socializing with friends at their place, or out of town. This can also lead to asking questions about whether or not they drink or smoke, if so how often, etc.

3. What are your cleaning habits and hygiene like?

We've all dealt with someone who never learned how to do laundry, who leaves their dishes in the sink for days and who forgets to put the toilet seat down. Heck, it may even be you. Either way, it's important to understand each other's hygiene and cleaning habits to establish if you'll get along when it comes to the cleanliness expectations of your home.

4. Do you like to cook at home or go out to eat?

Understanding someone's eating and dining habits can be important for several reasons. This could help you better understand if you'll need to be getting certain kitchen and cleaning supplies, and understanding this combined with their daily schedule can help the both of you determine if you'll be in the kitchen at the same time. If you both eat out you can split the UberEats delivery fee, and if you like to cook at home if can be together and you can even split the cost on certain groceries.

5. How often do you have people over?

This is a helpful question to establish ground rules about guests. Some people love to host and others like their down time alone at home. If you're more of a social person and your potential new roommate would rather not have people over all the time, that's okay. You can discuss a healthy balance by compromising and working in both of your favors.

6. How are your relationships with previous roommates?

Not everyone gets along and negative roommate experiences are common *cough cough why we created this platform.* But it's very important to ask this question. Why? Understanding people's current relationships with previous roommates can determine how your relationship would work. If they're telling you they hate every one of their past friends they've lived with, there's a common factor that needs to be recognized. If they are still close with each other, they were able to have a positive and respectful relationship. Make sure you check them on the Chillow app for their roommate review score as well!

7. Are you in a relationship?

This question is important for a multitude of reasons. If someone doesn't tell you if they're in a romantic relationship and they happen to be in one, you may be agreeing to a third roommate without even knowing it.

8. What is your ideal relationship with a roommate?

Here's the thing: it's okay not to become besties with your roommate. You don't need to be attached at the hip and be together 24/7. What there needs to be is understanding and creating common ground. Some people want to have a roommate solely because they can't afford a place on their own, other's are new to the area and want to meet new people, and some want to develop a close relationship to the person they're living with. Telling someone what you're looking for and getting their answer will simplify the process and create an overall understanding of what outcome is desired.

9. What are your pet peeves?

Everyone has them. Leaving wads of hair in the shower (gross, we know), borrowing other people's things without asking or people who double dip into the guacamole. Some people's habits can be other's worst nightmare. Don't skip this question, and make sure you check what their past roommates had to say about their habits (or lack thereof) on the Chillow app!

10. Do you have any pets or are you interested in getting any?

This is a two-part question for a reason. Asking if someone has any pets is one thing, but asking if they are or would think about getting one in the near future is a whole other ball park. Imagine being allergic to cats which you never disclosed to your roommate because they said they didn't have any furry friends then you come home one day to a baby kitten named Mr. Paws on your bed.

And there you have it; the 10 questions you need answered before deciding to move in with someone. Obviously ask as many questions until you're comfortable in making a decision whether or not this person may be a good fit for you. We hope this helps you establish whether that "perfect match" will actually work out in the long run. Good luck!

-The Chillow Team

We believe finding a roommate should come with simplicity and security, having you feel confident and at ease when making an important decision. We’re delighted to introduce you to the mobile application finally allowing roommates the ability to review, rank and endorse each other based on past living experiences. The app allows renters across the globe the opportunity to finally “roommate with confidence.” With Chillow you can easily manage your roommate search through a single platform without the stress of coming across unreliable, strange or even creepy sources.

Why Chillow?

No one said finding a roommate was easy, which is why we're here to do all the dirty work and navigate you through the process! By using the app you'll be able to customize age range, interests, location preferences, and more! Once filtering is set, potential roommate candidates will pop up. You then have the opportunity to check their profile for former roommate reviews and endorsements, and from there you'll have a choice: swipe left if not interested or swipe right and see if it's a match! Once you match with a potential roommate, you'll be able to message each other and connect via our in-app virtual safe technological advancements!

Our mission here at Chillow is simple: to serve YOU. We understand moving into a new home is a big step, and making a decision on who you're going to live with is just as important. By using Chillow, you'll finally be able to see what it is like to live with a potential roommate before signing the lease. Amazing, right?!

The Chillow app launches January 2021 and will be available in San Francisco, CA and Boise, ID.

Interested in learning more about the Chillow app launching in January 2021?! Be sure to follow us on
‍Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter!

We look forward to providing you with the first safe alternative when looking for a credible roommate!

-The Chillow Team

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