Packing Tips

 

Villa International provides an abundance of amenities, and we carry many of the basics you may be considering bringing in your luggage. Please read our suggestions prior to packing to ensure you only bring the essentials.

Clothes

Atlanta weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is a great idea. Villa has an exercise room available, and our resident assistant leads weekly Yoga and Pilates sessions (yoga mats are provided) – Exercise wear and comfortable walking shoes are suggested. Rain gear is a good idea, but Villa has many umbrellas you can use. Find an Atlanta weather summary below to aid in your packing.

  • Spring (March to May): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
  • Summer (June to August): 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F)
  • Fall (September to November): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
  • Winter (December to February): 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F)

Electronics and Appliances

What to bring?

Your personal electronics (computer, tablet, phone etc.), chargers, and adapters. Villa has free WIFI and a limited supply of adapters available.

What not to bring?

The US operates on a 120V electrical system, while many other countries use 220-240V. Check the voltage rating on any appliance you plan to bring, and consider utilizing Villa’s available appliances and/or purchasing whatever you need in the U.S. to ensure it is compatible with the power grid.

  • Irons: Villa has two irons and ironing boards available for your use in both the laundry room and exercise room.
  • Hair Dryers: Villa has two hair dryers available for you to borrow. Ask the front desk if you need it. We often have grocery drivers going to a nearby Walmart where you can purchase a blow dryer if you’d like to have your own at Villa.

Kitchen Ware

What to bring?

Villa provides two fully stocked kitchens (one with electric stoves, one with gas stoves), so you shouldn’t need to bring any kitchen supplies. We provide cups in the kitchen, but suggest you bring a reusable water bottle for your convenience – there are filtered water stations around Villa to refill.

What not to bring?

Pots, pans, plates, utensils, and various appliances are plentiful and available to you to use. This includes rice cookers, pressure cookers, slow cookers, blenders, a variety of coffee/espresso machines, microwaves, stand mixers, an air fryer, and more! There is no need to take up precious space in your luggage with any kitchen ware.

Food Items

What to bring?

Bringing food items through U.S. customs is subject to strict regulations to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. The rules can vary based on the type of food, its origin, and its processing. For the most accurate and current information, refer to the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website before your trip.

What not to bring?

You don’t need to bring any food items, as Atlanta has a wonderful selection of international grocery stores with specialty items from around the world.

  • Buford Highway Farmers Market: A large variety of international foods, including Asian, Latin American, European, and African groceries.
  • Cherians: South Asian and Middle Eastern groceries, including spices, rice, fresh produce, and halal meats.
  • Patel Brothers: Indian and South Asian groceries, including spices, lentils, rice, and fresh produce.
  • Your Dekalb Farmers Market: A diverse selection of international foods, fresh produce, seafood, meats, and baked goods from around the world.
  • HMart: Korean and other Asian groceries, including fresh produce, seafood, meats, and a wide range of Asian snacks and household items.

Medication

What to bring?

It is recommended to bring a sufficient supply of your prescription medication to last through your stay or until you are able to get set up with a local pharmacy. Note that customs may have a quantity limit on medication, generally up to 90 days is acceptable. You should keep your medication in its original packaging and bring a copy of your prescription.

What not to bring?

There is no need to bring over-the-counter medications. Villa is located a short walk away from a pharmacy, where you can purchase all basic over-the-counter medication, including pain relievers, cold and allergy medicine, digestive aids, sleep aids, vitamins, and more. Villa has a limited supply of basic over-the-counter medication available for you to use in our exercise room as well.