Experience in Athens, Greece by Eftichia

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

I always said that Athens is kind like the not so beautiful guy that you have a major crush without knowing why!Ok there many beautiful places like Plaka,Acropolis,Thisio, landscapes that are quite unique and also very touristic. Now as it concerns the "donwtown" athens what I really love is that in every corner you will find something different.For example in Kolonaki you will find all the "sik" cafes were all the guys with the suits go for a drink and a few meters away in Exarhia you will find yourself in a completely different world that is consisted with small shops were the bohemians,anarchists,musicians and students hang out. All day and night there places to go and have fun,the city never sleeps.I hate public transport,u can use the metro only 5-24 o'clock (friday,saturday until 02) and the buses aren't so regular.

What is the student lifestyle like in Athens?

Student life in Athens is great!Lot of places that only students hang out,u can party until the sun comes up!Rent is quite reasonable these days.

How much does it cost to live in Athens?

Athens is quite expensive for a student in comparison with the salaries.Of course u can always find cheap places and shops if you know were to go (coffee 2 euros in Exarheia but 4 in Kolonaki).The prices in the supermarket are almost bearable.But you can always survive by eating souvlakia (from 1,50 to 2,50) daily!

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

It's quite easy.Especially on September the streets are full with ads but i recommend using the internet in order to avoid all the walking around.NOTE:fInd a place close to the metro station,the city is big and you need to have a way of returning home.I recommend Panormou for example,great for students,lots of bars and coffee places,it's close to everywhere and has a metro station and buses that come and go regularly.

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

Ok food rocks!You have to try OF COURSE souvlakia ,the best fast food ever!Besides that there are like hundreds of dishes.Greek salad(love it),tzatziki,snails, mousaka,fishes,gemista- there so any just try as much as you can!

What places would you recommend visiting in Athens?

I f you are in Athens you have to go to Acropolis and at the new museum.Thisio and Plaka are amongst the most beautiful places I have ever seen. I also love monastiraki and take a walk from the Greek Parliament and across the Panepistimiou street to Akadimias. Beautiful buildings!

Is it good to eat out in Athens? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

I recommend "Kalamakia" at Panormou and "Kavdauvlos"at Gazi,the best places for souvlakia.

Is the nightlife good in Athens? Where is good to go?

AAAA the nightlife is great.Gazi,Exarheia,Kolonaki,Karitsi,Panormou are places full with bars,it depends on what you want.At Gazi you can find clubs,at Exarheia places for a beer.My favorite is Panormou,it's small and has everything.Personal best: a place called sensimilia at Panormoun for a drink

What advice would you give future students heading to Athens?

Get a lot of sleep before you come,you are not gonna have any here!