Erasmus Experience in Barcelona, Spain by Jonjo

Why did you choose to go to Barcelona, Spain?

I chose to go to Barcelona because I thought it would have all of the ideal things a city should have for your Erasmus experience (and I wasn't wrong). I've been to other cities in Spain and every time I go I really enjoy them, but they're no way near as good as Barcelona. It has everything.

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

I don't receive a scholarship being from a UK university, rather I pay a reduced fee for my education this year. We receive the Erasmus grant which is around 200 euros a month here in Barcelona.

What is the student lifestyle like in Barcelona?

Student lifestyle is different. Like most European countries a lot of Spaniards live with their parents or relatives during their studies. Barcelona is a great city because it has so much opportunity, but this opportunity isn't just limited to tourists, it's for everyone.

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

I would definitely recommend both to other students!

What is the food like?

The food is great! It's not that expensive either. During my time here I've adopted some of the customs of my local neighbourhood (El Raval) and have become Vegan. But that doesn't stop you from enjoying the cuisine here. I'm lucky because my neighbourhood caters to vegans and vegetarians. There's something and more for everyone.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Barcelona?

No it didn't! I had to pay a deposit to my landlord which I will receive back after my tenure. I used Erasmusu to find it and it is PERFECT. One of the best apartments I've seen in Barcelona.

How much does it cost to live in Barcelona?

It depends on where you live in Barcelona and how much rent you're willing to pay. Apart from that, day to day expenses are relatively low. I use the metro every day for my daily commute and so I buy a T-Jove for 3 months for 105 euros (which is not too expensive)! I'm also lucky because I live right next to el Mercat de la Boqueria so I get all of my spices, fruits and veg really cheap! Meats, cheese and alcohol (especially) are incredibly cheap from the supermarket.

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

You will honestly be surprised at how quickly your language skills improve. It took me a month of being a bit nervous of being wrong in front of natives to now being complimented on a regular basis for my "fluidez". And yes, there are extra courses available should you need them.

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

For me it's plane. Being from the UK it is the cheapest and quickest way.

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

Where to start! Almost anywhere! My favourite club is Razzmatazz or Pacha, but I also enjoy Sutton and Opium. If you don't fancy clubbing, play roulette with the many bars of Barcelona. I've not found a bad one yet!

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

I would recommend: Flax and Kale (vegetarian/bio), Orio (Pinchos), Neri (fine dining), Bar Iposa (cheap tapas but big and satisfying), Cafe Centric (cheap), DO (semi-fine dining in plaça reial, best burger joint in Barcelona).

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

La Sagrada Familia is top of the list. The outside is not always everyone's favourite (certainly not mine), especially the side designed by the architect just after Gaudi, but the inside is unlike anything I've ever seen before. Amazing. Casa Battlo and Amataller are good to take pictures of but not too special. Park Guell is extremely overrated, and small.

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

Don't be afraid that no one will speak to you in Castellano. I had everyone telling me "Oh but they speak Catalan there don't they? " They do. It's great to learn another, very similar language alongside it, but I have NEVER had anyone speak to me in Catalan when I talked to them in Castellano. Be aware, however, that if you look foreign (as in Northern European), if you speak to someone in less than fluent or not-confident Spanish, that they will very likely respond to you in English. If this is the case, simply continue talking in Spanish until they get the point.