Experience in Barcelona, Spain by Aleksandra

What is it like to live in Barcelona? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

It is amazing, just marvelous, wondeful, awesome, fantastic, beautiful, gorgeous and lovely. I would definitely reccomend this city to spend an Erasmus year here. The city is like a jewellery box.

What is the student lifestyle like in Barcelona?

You should be prepared for classes in Catalan. The student lifestyle in Barcelona is work hard party hard.

How much does it cost to live in Barcelona?

It's pretty expensive. But there are some cheap supermarkets (Lidl, for example), so you can definitely afford living in BCN. The prices are more or less of the same level as those in the whole Europe.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Barcelona? Is there any advice you can give?

Yes! It's very difficult to rent something directly from the owner. So you have to go to an agency that will ask you for comissions and a pretty big deposit. However, it is the easiest way to find a flat. Another option is to rent a room in a sharing flat that is much easier, or to rent a flat/a room via your friends.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is really diverse and nice. It is tasty, there is a great choice of fresh fruits and vegetables during the whole year. You should definitely try paella, gaspacho, garbanzas, you should go for tapas, and there is also an amazing chain of Italian ice-cream shops called Amorino.

What places would you recommend visiting in Barcelona?

Parc Gaudi, Parc de Joan Miro, Parc of Ciutadella, the ZOO, the Aquarium, the skate spot on the Paral-lel and Macba, the Triangle Square, the Magic Fountains, DIR Tarragona, Sants Estacio, The cucumber of Glories, the Troyka...

Is it good to eat out in Barcelona? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, it's very nice. Fresco, Wok to Walk, Buenas Migas, La Boqueria, Udon, Rosa de Raval, La Rosa Negra, Cosmo, Pasta Fresca, Buffet Libre of Sushi.

Is the nightlife good in Barcelona? Where is good to go?

SHOKO. There you can find the best dancers in the world!!! Even better than those of Lady Gaga.

What advice would you give future students heading to Barcelona?

Be aware of pickpockets and enjoy the amazing student lifestyle and climate in Barcelona!!!