Erasmus Experience in Aalborg, Denmark by Mathieu

Why did you choose to go to Aalborg, Denmark?

I am a teacher trainee student, so I had to look where I could go for my internship. There is an international school in Aalborg (and Aalborg itself is very international as well) so this seemed like a good choice. I am very happy now that I chose this city!

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

I received a scholarship of 479 euros for each month (30 days) that I'm here and 16 euros for each extra day. I need about 430 euros for my apartment each month, so I have some money left. It is not enough for all costs, but helps a lot already!

What is the student lifestyle like in Aalborg?

Aalborg is very international, so there are a lot of people who are in the same situation as you will be. Just talk to anyone and they will help you right away.
There are some student organisations (e.g.: I-life) who also organise activities for students.
There's also a student house that has many activities and a very nice and cheap bar. You can work there (voluntarily) if you want and then you get tokens for cheaper drinks. You can also befriend one (as I did). ;)

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

I am not studying at the university here as I am here for an internship. I do have quite some friends at the university and they all say that it is a good one. Every school has its flaws, so does this one.
I do recommend this city. It is the fourth biggest city of Denmark, but it doesn't feel like a big city. There are a lot of busses and there are trains. The roads are good (as far as I know), there are nice places to visit, plenty of supermarkets and really everything one needs.

What is the food like?

Most of the food is quite standard European. I do notice that there are a lot of things with chicken. If you're vegetarian, you can definitely find your food in supermarkets. In restaurants, there are most of the times a veggie dish as well but only one. For example, there are burgers and pasta, then there is one veggie burger and one veggie pasta.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Aalborg?

I didn't pay to find accommodation, but I did need to pay a deposit (like everyone has to do). I found my place by posting in a Facebook group. It was a very easy and fast way to find a good place that meets all my requirements.
I live in an apartment in the middle of the city centre on my own. I would advise you though to find a roommate because then you can divide the costs.

How much does it cost to live in Aalborg?

I had a deal with someone who sublet his apartment to me for the time I'm here. Most people get an empty apartment and need furniture. If you're planning on staying for a semester I'd advise you to find someone who wants to sublet his or her place. If you're staying for a longer time, then it is definitely a good idea to have your own place with your own stuff.

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

This is the only thing I dislike about Denmark. The language is quite alright to read, but the pronunciation is incredibly difficult and weird. I tried Duolingo before I came here and I learnt some of the language which helped me when I have to go to the supermarket. I also know (from experience) that the cashier always asks if you want the receipt. Just nod or say JA ( = yes) or NEJ (no) and to be polite, you add TAK (thanks).
For understanding more of the language, you need a serious course.

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

If you don't want to spend too much money on travelling, you should take flixbus. There is a stop here in Aalborg.
To commute between cities, the best way is by buying a (second handed) bike (through Facebook). If you have to go a long way, it is better to go by bus or train. Then it is very interesting to get a "Rejsekort". This is a card you can use for all means of public transport in Denmark. You can charge it with money and this is much cheaper than paying on the bus itself or buying separate tickets all the time.

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

There are some cafes in the streets and the student house is a very nice place as well, but if you want to party there is only one place to go to. Jomfru Ane Gade. This is a street full of cafes and pubs for an amazing night out. Don't forget to bring your ID with you!

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

I have tried several restaurants and I was happy with all of them. I tried "Visa", "Spirets", "Jenssen's bofhus" and other good places. Just check the menu before you enter and then I think you should be fine.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Even if you're not a fan of going out, you have to walk through Jomfru Ane Gade. Other places to go to are the Viking Cemetery and the Viking museum (Lindholm). As well as the Aalborg Tarnet (tower) and the art museum. There's a lot of art on the walls of buildings as well, so you could always go for a walk to find as many as you can.
If you don't know what to do, just go for a walk and you'll always find a nice place. Either it is a good view or it is a museum or another cultural sight.

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

If you're going all by yourself, just search through Facebook for some things to do and force yourself to go to them. That's how you meet people and how you will make friends for the rest of your life