José Luis' Experience in Alicante, Spain

What attracts you to living in Alicante? Do you recommend it? What's it like?

Although the university is called the University of Alicante, its campus is actually in San Vicent del Raspeig, which is a town where most of the students live and where I recommend you live if you want to be near to the university. There is a wide variety of flats and all at different prices with different amenities. On average I would say that prices are usually around 150/200 euro a month per person, plus bills. There is also the possibility of living in student accommodation. Here are some of the names of websites you can use to find somewhere to live: 1. Villa Universitaria 2. Europa House 3. Residencia Universitara Diego de León 4. Residencia Universitaria Mediterráneo 5. Rector 3.

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What's the student lifestyle like in Alicante?

The university atmosphere is really good because the University of Alicante has an extraordinary campus where you can spend your free time at ease. Its sports facilities are great and there are also lots of green areas. If you want to go out on a Thursday (in Sant Vicent) or on the weekends (Alicante), there are lots of options, some cheap and some more expensive. The best thing is, Alicante always has a great atmosphere.

How much does it cost to live in Alicante?

It depends. I pay 540 euros a month in the Residence Villa Universitario accommodation, and I have breakfast and food included (but not dinner). There is also cheaper accommodation like Europa House for example, which doesn't include food. Flats, as I have mentioned before, cost around 150/200 euros a month per person, plus personal bills.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Alicante? Do you have any advice?

I didn't have much difficulty finding somewhere, but I recommend planning ahead to avoid any possible problems that may arise at the last minute. My advice is to visit the official website of the university where they will advise you and recommend places to look for accommodation: https://www.ua.es/en/index.html

What’s the country’s food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food in Spain, in general, is really good and the gastronomy is famous throughout the world. If you come to Spain you can't leave without trying Spanish omelette, paella, gazpacho, cocido Madrileno, migas, and churros with chocolate (especially after a good night of partying) etc.

What places do you recommend visiting in Alicante?

In the city of Alicante there are the beaches of Postiguet and San Juan, the Castle of Santa Barbara, the port and the old town of Santa Cruz (El Barrio). You can also visit towns nearby to Alicante such as Altea, Dénia, Calpe, Benidorm, Vila Joiosa and the city of Elche.

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What about eating out in Alicante? What are your favourite places?

Apart from the typical fast food chains like Burger King, Taco Bell etc., I don't know of any. I prefer when students discover traditional restaurant for themselves.

Sorry :(

Where do you recommend for nightlife in Alicante?

El Barrio (the old town) is a party area full of pubs where drinks are usually very well-priced. It is always full of people and the pubs close at about 4. If afterwards you want to continue the party elsewhere, you could go to Quinta Avenida, Marmarela, Mulligans, Concerto or the clubs on the port.

If you are looking to go out in the evening to have a more relaxed drink with friends, I recommend going to Castanos (it is the name of a street which is full of bars), although it is a bit more expensive.

Do you have any advice for future students in Alicante?

Alicante is a city that offers everything. There is an airport, good climate, parties, a good university with an amazing campus that offers a variety of different opportunities and activities. If you can find the balance between studying, partying and other activities like sightseeing, sport etc., you are going to love this city.

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