Erasmus Experience in Athens, Greece by sarah

Why did you choose to go to Athens, Greece?

Because I'd never been there before!

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

Was one year. I recieved £700 but worked as I was doing an internship

What is the student lifestyle like in Athens?

Very fun! Loads of people, so many unique cafes bars and shops. Delicious cheap food at the tavernas, loads of good concerts and the bar old fashioned was the best place to hang out (in Psyrri).

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

I didn't go to the uoa but I would definitely recommend the city

What is the food like?

Amazing! Full of fresh produce as most of it is grown in Greece. Simple but unique dishes packed with flavour. Beats any Mediterranean food by miles!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Athens?

No I searched myself on Craigslist and Gumtree

How much does it cost to live in Athens?

Not much if you're not too fussy, about 350/400 euros a month for a nice apartment in a good area, which is cheap for a capital city. You can find cheaper further out of the centre too.

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

At the beginning it was difficult because it was so fast but you get used to it!

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

Plane and metro is easiest, the train is more economical but too far so only did that on my way home.

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

Old fashioned psyrri and k44 (now called tora)

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

In the little dodgy area behind the market there is a square where there is beautiful yellow building with the best food!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Sorry too many to name; I'd be here a while!

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

Enjoy it! It looks a bit rough round the edges since the government and corporations have forced the people into debt. but you'll find the people are still wonderful and the city has a lot to give. Check out stigma lab and taf.