Erasmus experience in Almeria, Spain

Why did you decide to go to Almeria, Spain?

When I was in high school I went for a trip to Malaga in Spain and I fell I love with Andalusia

Source

How long does the grant last? How much money do you receive as help?

The duration of the Erasmus grant depends on the faculty and on the university you attend, just like the monthly amount you receive.

What is the student environment like in Almeria?

There are lots of young people, but I would not define Almeria as a university city at all.

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

Yes, if you like small cities that are not too chaotic.

How is the country’s food?

Great! They have a variety of amazing tapas!

How did you find accommodation?

By looking for rental advertisements in a local newspaper.

How much does the accommodation cost? What are the living costs like in general?

The prices are low, for a rather big single room I paid €150. However, it depends on the place, just by the sea the prices vary up to €200.

How’s it going with the language? Did you attend any university courses?

Yes, a Spanish course is available for all Erasmus students with a test to evaluate your entry level. I study Spanish at university, I stayed there for a year and now I am fluent.

What is the cheapest way to get to Almeria from your city?

Ah! This is a problem. I you live in Rome or further to the North it is rather easy (you only do one change, for example Rome to Madrid then Madrid to Almeria), but if you live in Sicily, like me, first you need to get to the north of Italy. I for example, went from Catania to Bologna then from Bologna to Granada and and finally from Granada to Almeria by bus, or else I changed in Madrid.

What places do you recommend for going out at night in Almeria?

The city centre, they call it "las cuatros calles”. Cute little places where you can drink and dance! And then you should end your night at “Malaviaje” which is open until 6 in the morning everyday! (or if you are more nostalgic you can walk along the seafront which is transformed in the summer and is teeming with people until late at night.

And what about eating out in Almeria? Can you tell us about your favourite places?

1. Sacristia Calle Mayor (right on a side street of the Ramble) a great place for tapas, the owner is very nice and the place is always packed.. ah.. and a mug of beer with a tapa is only €1 or €2 depending on the season.
2. The Mazmorra (on a street that crosses the rambla obispo orberà) a very particular menu.
3. Cabana del tio Tom (seafront) great for eating fish.
4. The Bodeguilla (square of fine arts near the Cervantes theatre) great “patatas a lo pobre” (spicy boiled potatoes) and a very nice location.
5. And obviously Las Cuatros Calles!
6. If you like tea Calle Paz is a very relaxing Arab tea house!

And some cultural places to see?

The Alcazaba, a Muslim fortress at the top of the city, the cathedral very close to las cuatros calles, Cabo de Gata which is a nature reserve located 40km from Almeria and do not miss the shows at the Apolo theatre.

And for those who want to travel a bit further, it is worth to go Granada where you can see Alhambra!

Any advice you would like to give to future students in Almeria?

Enjoy yourselves! Enjoy the good weather, good food and take it easy. In Andalusia: "el tiempo mata y, si no mata, cansa! " ("the weather can kill you and if it doesn't kill you, it makes you feel tired!")