Erasmus Experience in Sofia, Bulgaria by François

Why did you choose to go to Sofia, Bulgaria?

We are the first generation able to discover the east of Europe with all the freedom needed. This opportunity had to be taken and opened me to a different culture and made me understand how different and opposits the peoples of Europe are.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

6 month of Erasmus in Sofia/Studentski grad.
Around 300€/month. Way too much to live in these countries, astonishing to feel rich at such a early age.

What is the student lifestyle like in Sofia?

Sofia has its own student city called "studentskigrad" (litteraly the city of students).
The life there is amazingly activ and fun.
One thing : do not expect "good music" regarding western europe standards.

Clubing is a totally different experience.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Sofia to other students?

Of course, it will open anyone to a new culture and a new way to do business in general.

Tons of opportunities have to be taken in this kind of countries.

What is the food like?

Quite good, I am in Germany now and I must say that the food was better in Sofia :)
But I am french, so I am not that objectiv..

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Sofia?

Nothing.
If you want to go the real Bulgarian student way it is around 30€/month (studentski grad, straight in the B.L.O.C.K). I warmly advise this way if you want to live something true and have a real piece of fun. Do not go "apartment on your own", please ;)

How much does it cost to live in Sofia?

average wage is around 350€... Close to Chinese one, crazy..

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Yes you can get langage courses. The langage is based on cyrilic alphabet = impossible.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Sofia from your city?

Plane!

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Sofia?

I wouldn't recommend. I leave the surprise.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Sofia?

Can't recall. Very cheap, sometimes very bad. But the average is ok.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Mountains, monastery..

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Sofia in the future?

Have fun , pay attention (people can be a bit extreme sometimes) , learn and try.