Erasmus Experience in Barcelona, Spain by Gowtham

Why did you choose to go to Barcelona, Spain?

I chose Spain so that I can learn Spanish very easily and also to study in UPC university one of top universities in Spain after Madrid and Valencia.

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

Unfortunately, I don't have a scholarship to study now, I am trying to get some part time jobs and scholarship within university.

What is the student lifestyle like in Barcelona?

Partying hard in your free time and enjoying the sea side.

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

Yes and no, If you have sufficient money then yes of course, but not if you have to struggle. I study at polytechnic UPC the university of Catalonia, As far as I know, the UB university is also good. In general the international students prefer studying in Spain after Holland and Germany.

What is the food like?

Similar to the other EU countries like Germany, France etc... you can find a lot of Asian food and good pastries.

How much does it cost to live in Barcelona?

300-600 euro per month, depending on your financial. Food can be good under 8 euros or 5 euros for other types of food such as Asian.

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

Yes, in order to study Catalan or Spanish, we can enroll at the university. If it's expensive, you can hire a private teacher by surfing or simply asking friends nearby.

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

The train station called RENFE is the best and cheapest way to travel along the whole city. Apart from RENFE, there are also other fast trains that connect to France and other cities. The bus is good for the tourists: an adult journey ticket known as T-10 is excellent, since you can travel both in train and bus for 10 trips for just 10. 30 euros. There are also some special monthly ticket offers available for under 25 age.

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

All restaurants are good and they have almost the same menu.

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

Please, at least a month before your arrival, make sure you reserve a shared flat with some international students or local people, but find a place and make sure you have a home. If not, you can stay in some cheap hotels for only 10 euro per night, while you're looking for accommodation.... Youth hostel is famous for students who want to stay... In conclusion when it comes to part time jobs and internships, those are very difficult to get here, that's the the only drawback.