Experience in Athens, Greece by Anne

What is it like to live in Athens? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Pros: Athens is a city that never sleeps. The nightlife is definitely not going to disappoint you and public transportation is cheap (30 euros/month to anywhere). You can use it to go almost anywhere in less than 1. 5 hour in the city and the suburbs. There is a very wide variety of things that one can do for entertainment, food, sightseeing and cultural exploration, and once you are there you will discover that everybody speaks English and a little German or French because these languages are mandatory for everyone at school. It is sunny for 10/12 months and access to the beaches is possible by public transportation.

Cons: It is not a very clean city, and doesn't have many parks. Also bikes are only now slowly being integrated into the city life.

What is the student lifestyle like in Athens?

Studying in Athens is quite unique. The universities are public and free for all, and one can continue his degree almost for all his life if he/she wishes without being kicked out for failing classes. The students, due to historical reasons, are all very politically active, and the youth clubs of all major political parties are present in almost every uni department. Student strikes are common. During the year, we have two semesters and 3 exams periods: January, June and September. Slightly problematic for international students: Only a handful of classes are taught in English in undergraduate programs.

The university offices are understaffed and rarely answer emails, but the professors are for the most part very friendly and cooperative if you contact them by email or directly. In order to pass the exams most students seek help from other students, concerning books, inquiries, solved exercises etc in forums that are set up for that exact purpose.

How much does it cost to live in Athens?

Accommodation in Athens, in areas around the major universities is one of the cheapest in Europe. With 200-400 euros/ month it is possible for a student to rent a private 2 room apartment with a private kitchen and private bathroom. Keep in mind that utilities are not ever included in the bill. Because of that the phenomenon of flat-sharing is very rare. Transportation is also very cheap (30 euros/month is the monthly pass or 1. 20 euros for a ticket with 1 hour duration). The price of food and essentials was never very high and prices have fallen more due to the financial crisis.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Athens? Is there any advice you can give?

At this point in time, rental offers in Athens are abundant and cheap and it is preferable to seek accommodation on your own than accept the offer of a room in the university halls that doesn't satisfy you. However be sure to check the flat before you move in, meet the owner and do not send money by Western Union in adds you find on the internet because there may be frauds.

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

The beloved traditional dish is of course souvlaki. The Turks say we stole it, the may be right, but nevertheless it is delicious, it is sold everywhere, it is a full meal and it costs only 2 euros. Apart from that, Greek taverns are famous worldwide, and of course international cuisine (Italian, Chinese, Indian, American, etc. ) is accessible in all parts of the city.

What places would you recommend visiting in Athens?

The historical center, Acropolis, the old village of Plaka in the city center, Glyfada, Khfisia, the port of Piraeus (mikrolimano), and the beaches. For shopping: avoid Ermou. Go to Marousi, Nea Smurni and the Malls.

What advice would you give future students heading to Athens?

Contact the professors of the classes you wish to attend before going there. Join the fora of the students and ask them anything! Don't try to figure it out on your own. Ask for other students to take you on a tour, they will be delighted. They love foreign students (because we have so few) and nobody knows the city better than them!