Erasmus Experience in Aveiro, Portugal by Giedre

Why did you choose to go to Aveiro, Portugal?

Because of double degree studies

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

I recieve 470 Euro per month, 10 months

What is the student lifestyle like in Aveiro?

A lot of activities, organized by ESN. Quite expencive.

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

Biggest problem in University - despite the internationality, majority of professors do not speak English. Administration staff has the same problem. Problems with documentation.

What is the food like?

Excellent

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Aveiro?

No, but it was really really difficult! Try to arrive as early as possible, preferably begin to look for a flat few months before. Conditions are very poor and accommodation is costly. To live in Ilhavo is also an option and cheaper one - it is a walking distance to the University. Another option is to live in Porto - trains are cheap, go every hour and till the late night - if you are interested in real life and culture - go for it. Life in Aveiro is really really calm...

How much does it cost to live in Aveiro?

Quality life - about 1000 Euro per month (separate studio, food, some purchases). Living in a shared flat (room price is between 200-300 Euro) with no travelling - possible to fit into 500.

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

Yes, courses available and highly recommend to go to them. For students they are free, but need to be included in learning agreement. With no Portuguese expect to have many difficulties, especially looking for services and in shopping. Keep in mind, that in Portugal at the age about 40 only 5 percent of citizens has no less than 12 years school education (majority have 4-9 years at school only!)

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

The most economical way - to take a bus to Warszaw and plane to Porto. Then train to Aveiro. But this way is really long, better take 2 planes with changing.

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

Bars, pubs, night clubs.

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

Still trying to explore them.

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

Be prepared to a very different rules in a society, learn a bit Portuguese words in advance, smile and stay calm :) Life is beautiful journey, full of adventures!