Erasmus Experience in Albi, France by Hazal

Why did you choose to go to Albi, France?

My main aim was to learn French. Albi is a small place, not many people know english so I thought it might be a great opportunity to practise it.

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

mine is for 10 months and I get 400 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Albi?

it is pretty quiet. at first I didnt like it but then I ve decided it is better like that. because when you do it once in a while you get the taste, if I would be living in a better place and partying everyday, it is both not good for my pocket and for me as well. house parties are more important in albi, but french people are a bit introverted and unfriendly at first glance till you get to them.

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

Of course I would. but it is not a place for party people. dont forget that it is pretty small, not very alive, but it has a different kind of beauty for me and for the most of the erasmus studens here.

What is the food like?

Well, it is french cuisine, it is more different than what I am used to as I am Turkish, but as I am open to new tastes I guess I like it.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Albi?

no, not really. before I came here I just e- mailed Champollion and they offered me their university student houses which cost 100 euros per month which is pretty adequate.

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How much does it cost to live in Albi?

between 350 euros, 400 euros I guess. If you like going out, eating out and shopping. otherwise, you can save up this money.

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

I came here with 0 level of French. I can not say I speak and understand french excellently now but there is a remarkable difference when it is compared to the first time I came here. Yes there are french courses in the uni, but for me they werent enough.

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

Well, as Albi is a small place, it is not cheap to get here without passing by toulouse so, for me it is plane and then train to albi.

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

O' sullivans is a nice cosy Irish bar, Gambrinus is also nice for cheap drinks and dancy nights.

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

Well, french restaurants are a bit pricey so I can not think of any examples.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

well, albi has the biggest brick cathedral in europe which is protected by Unesco, it is worth seeing for sure. Around albi, corde sur ciel, carcasonn, gaillac also worth to see. it depends what you would like to see to be honest. these areas reflect middle ages so, you can see history on every corner.

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Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Albi?

Start learning basic French that is all I can say. French people are nice and helpful people but they are even better when you talk to them in french =)