My Erasmus Experience in Athlone, Ireland by Solène

Why did you choose to go to Athlone, Ireland?

To learn English, essentially.

How long's your stay? What financial aid do you receive?

I received a grant of 2000 euros for the academic year.

What's the student vibe like in Athlone?

The international students are one big family in Athlone as the city is relatively small and there's a big university campus.

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Would you recommend the city or university to other students?

Yes because unlike bigger cities like Dublin, it's easier to meet other international students.

What's Ireland's food like?

Compared to food in France, it's bad, but you can find pretty good products to make your own nice meals.

Was it hard to find accommodation in Athlone?

No, there are a lot of university residences reserved for foreign students so it's really easy. I lived in Wellmount, but there is also Croi Oige, Heatherview, Daly's and more.

What are living costs like in Athlone?

It's more expensive than France, I'd say 350 euros a month.

What's it like learning the language there? Did you take part in a language course organised by the university?

There are English courses organised by the university but they're not particularly productive. The best way to progress is by speaking with Irish people or even with other foreign students in English. Don't just stay with those you speak the same language as you, even if those nationality groups form naturally, which they do.

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What's the most economical way to get to Athlone from your home town?

Flying from Rennes to Dublin, Paris to Dublin or getting a ferry to Cork.

Where do you recommend to go out in Athlone?

Karma and Viva are good clubs to go to on Wednesdays, there's also Sean Bar and The Shack, in front of Wellmount.

And to eat in Athlone? What are your favourite places?

The Shack on Dublin Road at lunch time, it has a good Irish pub feeling.