One thing I didn't expect (but didn't mind) was the family-style dining at every meal. I think it took the group a few meals to adapt to the consideration and mindfulness that was required by this style of dining, but eventually everyone got the hang of it.
I know there's a saying that food brings people together, but I truly felt that during mealtimes. Some of us would fill a neighbor's plate before filling our own, or stop a platter as it came by because we knew someone wanted a piece. It forced us to become close with each other, and I felt that it helped to foster some of our relationships.
I believe this communal way of enjoying meals was integral to facilitating friendship and connection.