Erasmus Experience in Alicante, Spain by Robert

Why did you choose to go to Alicante, Spain?

I wanted to go to an area where the accent and type of Spanish was clear and easy to learn. Also the weather is amazing with many beaches, its very accesible and cheap with a good atmosphere.

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

Alicante is very cheap, it's quite easy to live on 400/500 euro for the month. Rent and transport is very cheap and food is also inexpensive. I would strongly recommend going for 1 year.

What is the student lifestyle like in Alicante?

Brilliant, it's so much fun, where you will meet so many amazing people. Its a perfect place for foreign students as the city is small and easy to get around whilst also being very good for nightlife and fun!

Source

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

Yes, highly, it was the best time of my life and I think UA is of a very good educational standard. For me the city was perfect, medium sized, sunny, beach, cheap, great nightlife.

What is the food like?

Good, very good experience to learn more about Spanish cuisine, also Mercadona is a must!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Alicante?

No.

How much does it cost to live in Alicante?

Rent should be about 200 euro per month, and transport (30 euro) and entertainment is optional but food is very cheap also.

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

Yes, there is a good Spanish introduction course at UA. But I recommend joining a tandem group and eating out, going into the city, bars etc., it's cheap and the best to practice.

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

Flight, check Ryanair for best deals.

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

El barrio, great are with so many bars of all types.

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

Sale & Pepe, but also Lizarran and Tapa Cana.

Source

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Isla Marina, el castillo de Santa Bárbara, Hercules stadium, la playa Postiguet.

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

Try to have as many Spanish friends as possible, you will most likely up end living with other Erasmus and English can be spoken as much as possible.

Source

Also try to have a balance.... maintain a decent level of commitment to STUDY as UA can be tricky for some subjects.