Erasmus Experience in Ankara, Turkey by Simona

Why did you choose to go to Ankara, Turkey?

For the different culture and for the good hospital (I am a nursing student).

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

Approximately 2000€ for 5 months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ankara?

Eating, drinking and studying one week before the exams, partying.

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

Yes, if you don't have any other choice.

Source

What is the food like?

Awesome, I really like it, I come from Italy and I like the Mediterranean cuisine.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Ankara?

Nope, my Erasmus mentor found a flat for me with a roommate.

How much does it cost to live in Ankara?

I pay rent for a room 500tl and for going out and eating I think around 400tl.

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

The Turkish language is very hard for me and my University (Baskent) doesn't offer any course. There is a good institute for foreigners (Thomer) that offers language courses but it's very expensive, like 300€.

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

Plane from Rome to Istanbul then from Istanbul to Ankara.

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

Tunali area, Seventh Street, Kizilay, Cayyolu (but for this you need a car).

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

Almost everywhere you can find good food, Iskender have a variety of kebabs, Bigos to eat cajun chicken at 10tl, Lehman kultur to have a big Turkish breakfast, Ozsut for the cakes.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Not so many, Anitkabir is very beautiful and Ankara castle with the surroundings of Hacettepe University, Kocatepe mosque is not historical but still beautiful. The museums close early on weekends so it's kind of impossible to visit them, there is not so much cultural life I think.

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

Erasmus is a very beautiful experience and you will enjoy it everywhere you go so also in Ankara.