Erasmus Experience in Barcelona, Spain by Grecia

Why did you choose to go to Barcelona, Spain?

I chose to spend my time abroad in Barcelona, as Spain is the only country in Europe which speaks the same language and has kind of a similar culture, you could say that out of all the European countries, Spain is the one which is the most similar to Latin America.

Barcelona, Spain

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How long was the scholarship? How much money did you receive to help?

I received no grant whatsoever, nor any sort of financial help.

Students in Barcelona

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How's student life in Barcelona?

Barcelona is a student-y city for sure, it is home to one of the best universities in Spain: the university of Barcelona, as well as ESADE which is internationally renowned. When you walk through the city's streets, you can see just how many local and international students there are, especially in the areas surrounding the university.

Barcelona is a student-y city

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The university of Barcelona

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

Yes, I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who is thinking of going to Barcelona to do so.

I would recommend Barcelona

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How's the country's food?

The food is very delicious and quite varied. Spain is known for its good-quality ham and above all their wine, tapas and seafood. The food eaten here is quite healthy and homely.

It's important to know that if you're not a fan of cheese, ham, pasta, you will not leave without eating, but you may have to dig a little to find a restaurant to your liking.

Tapas in Barcelona

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Was it hard to find accommodation in Barcelona?

I looked for accommodation after I had already arrived, when I did my exchange I went with a group of friends and we decided to visit the apartments in person which is what I recommend, this way you can get to know the area and property, and you will also avoid scams. It wasn't difficult for us but it is important to know that it is a process which is tedious and above all tiring.

What's the cost of living like in Barcelona?

Barcelona is an expensive city, I could dare to say that of the most expensive competing with Madrid, a rental of a flat in good condition and in a central area will cost you about 900 to 1200 euros per month, for a place with 2-3 bedrooms which is small, in Europe everything is small.

The nightlife in Barcelona is also expensive, most places charge around 15-20 euros. A weekly supermarket shop will cost you around 25 euros. The transport is very good and there's many payment options and packages.

A street in Barcelona

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How's the language? Did you take a language course at university?

No. Catalan is a language which is only spoke in Catalonia and although it's not very difficult to understand, it's different to Castellan. Although it is a regional language, it is spoken mostly by Catalans in their daily lives and this includes teachers who will teach in Catalan, and they will not want to do so in Castilian.

What's the cheapest way of getting to Barcelona from your hometown?

By flying to Madrid from Mexico City or Cancun, for the latter there are many offers when flying to Europe. Once in Madrid you can take the night bus to Barcelona, 7-8 hours, travel at night and it costs around 35 euros per person. The standard train also takes 7-8 hours and will cost about 60-70 euros, and the high speed-AVE will take between 2-3 hours and costs around 100 euros if you buy a ticket close to the day of travel.

What places would you recommend for a night out in Barcelona?

In the port area is Pasha which places electronic music, Opium where well-known DJs play, Carpe Diem and Shoko, these last two are restaurants which become nightclubs at midnight.

In the upper area of Barcelona is Sutton, Bling Bling, Room B, among many others, in these places you will find many more locals.

Barcelona port

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What about eating out in Barcelona? Can you tell us your favourite places?

Tapas! Around Passeig de Gracia are the best ones, Cervecería Catalana, Vinitus and Lateral, all of which have tapas. Kabuki is great if you're after good sushi, El Nacional also does tapas but is more fancy. In the port area you will find the best paellas and authentic Mediterranean dishes.

What about for a cultural visit?

Barcelona is a 100% cultural city. Antonio Gaudí is the architect of Barcelona and visiting his buildings is something you cannot miss, among them are the Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera, Casa Batlló and Parc Guell. The Gothic Quarter is a must-see, especially the Cathedral of Barcelona, located in the old town which was once walled, gothic par excellence. Awesome!

The Sagrada Familia

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Parc Guell

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Any advice for students coming to Barcelona?

Seize every moment, eat lots of ham, get to know a lot of people, and especially take into account that Catalan will become part of your daily life, it is an aspect that reigns in Catalunya.