Experience in Alicante, Spain by Sonia

Do you like living in Alicante?

I've been studying at the University of Alicante for three years and still haven't got bored of moving every time the new year starts at one of the best student cities. The weather is always good and if you are looking for parties you'll never go without, because they are always happening! Apart from that, there is a pretty port and a castle which all Erasmus students will go up more than once to have a drink to the views.

How much does it cost to live in Alicante?

You can live on less than 200 euros on the side where the University of Alicante Polytechnic School (EPSA) is located - half an hour via tram from Alicante. The other option is to get a flat for 150-250 euros in the centre of Alicante so that you don't miss out on a thing! Alicante is cheap if you know where to look, and the majority of Erasmus students live in the city centre.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Mediterranean food is great and offers a great variety of meat, fish, desserts and more, and if you prefer spicy food there is Mexican, Indian, Chinese food and more.

My favourite dishes: Croquetas (I have to admit that they are the ones that my mum makes that I am crazy for), paella (made by my aunt) and baby squids (good from anywhere).

One of the best dishes is la coca amb tonyina i ceba (tuna pie) which you have to try before leaving!

What places would you recommend visiting in Alicante?

A walk through the esplanade whilst eating an ice cream or going up the Santa Barbara Castle then getting lost in the old city below, is one of my favourite things to do. If you want to do something a bit more entertaining, Club Marmarela is perfect to enjoy a cocktail whilst listening to music with your friends.

What about eating in Alicante? Can you tell us your favourite places?

Places that are always good are the Italian restaurant "Tagliatella" or the tapas bar "El Canto".

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

My favourite places are Marmarela, Concerto and Quinta Avenida.

Do you have any advice for future students heading to Alicante?

Explore everything that you can and don't ever stop visiting the other little cities nearby, because there is nothing less charming than Villajoyosa with its rocky beaches and crystal clear water. It will never stop surprising you, it's the same thing with its amazing colourful houses that look like something from a postcard.

Visit cities like Elche and it's palm trees, and never stop going to places like Peñon de Ifach, an easy to climb mountain, and the spectacular views in Calp.

Above all, enjoy yourself, make the most of the sunny days, and take up all the opportunities that appear because...

Uni life is the best life!