Banska Bystrica, Erasmus experience in Slovakia

Why did you choose to go to Slovakia?

To be honest, it was my only choice. But I was happy to be in Banska.

How long did your grant last for? How much money did you receive?

It was a 5 month period and the scholarship is not enough by itself. It would be ideal if it was 550€ per month.

How is student life in Banska Bystrica?

It is really good if you are seeking for fun. It wouldn't be wrong if I said it is Eskisehir of Turkey.

Would you recommend Banska Bystrica and its universities to other students?

Yes, it is a small town but it's really beautiful.

How was the food there?

To be honest I haven't really eaten Slovakian food so I won't be able to comment about it.

How did you find accommodation there?

Our dormitory was really good. It was a mixed one and it was really fun, the only problem was that we didn't have Internet connection in our rooms. We had to go down to the corridor.

What was the cost of living like?

It was 50€/month for me. Turkey is cheaper when it comes to shopping for clothes but transportation and alcohol was cheaper here.

How was the language? Did you attend any course at the university?

Normally only young people or students speak English,.

What is the most economical way to go to Banska Bystrica from your hometown?

I stayed for a year and I flew with Pegasus from Istanbul-Vienna. There are buses from Vienna every hour to Bratislava and also from Bratislava to Banska Bystrica.

Where would you recommend in Banska Bystrica to go out in the night?

Of course Kapitol, Ponorka or Ministry. There isn't much else to go but they are really fun.

Which restaurants would you recommend?

Olivo and Duplin.

What about the cultural sites? What kind of places does it have?

There are a lot of historical places and castles around but I won't be able to help much about it since I am not really interested.

Any advice you'd like to give future Erasmus students in Banska Bystrica?

Just enjoy it and have fun. I would really want to be in your shoes now. It was the most fun year I have had. One suggestion, try to hang out with international people otherwise you won't make that much progress with your English.