Experience in Barcelona, Spain, by Alessia

Why did you decide to go to Barcelona, Spain?

Because I love its culture, the fact that there's both the beach and the mountains, the weather is incredible and the people are very cordial. I wanted to learn Spain and experience life abroad in Spain.

How long does your scholarship last? How much money are you receiving?

Mine lasts six months and I receive 300 euros per month, but I think my money will last me until the end of my Erasmus exchange.

What is the student life like in Barcelona?

Depends on the university, I'm at the Ramon Llull, Comunicacion Blanquerna, which is a very demanding but worthwhile private university.

Would you recommend the University of Barcelona to other students?

Yes, absolutely.

How is the local food?

Not bad but for me, being Italian, I'd say our food is better.

Was it difficult finding housing in Barcelona?

A little bit, mostly because the best houses in the center, the ones with the best price/quality value, were already taken during the summer.

How much does it cost to live in Barcelona?

A decent house will not cost less than 350 euros per month. If you want to go party you should just check where the Erasmus parties are and you'll get in for free.

How is it going with the language? Did you take language courses at your university?

I am taking a course, but I learn better when I talk to people.

What is the cheapest way for you to get to Barcelona from your city?

Airplane.

Where would you recommend going out at night in Barcelona?

To go and walk around, Passeig de Gracia, so the Example district. To go out for a drink, Raval or the Gothic Quarter. To go dance, near Diagonal metro station on Carrer de Tusset and Carrer d'Aribau. Otherwise there are all the nightclubs at the Barceloneta, the best ones being Opium and Shoko. Other good nightclubs are Apolo and Plataforma. On Wednesdays entrance is always free for Erasmus students at Razzmatazz.

And what are your favorite places to eat in Barcelona?

100 montaditos, la Sureña.

Are there any good cultural places to go and see?

Casa Batllo, the Pedrera, The Sagrada Familia, the Picasso Museum, Tibidabo, in the Gothic Quarter the cathedrals and the music palace. Montjuic Castle. Park Guell.

Do you have any advice for future students going to Barcelona?

Come for a week in July and look for the house that you want. Get the Tarjeta Tjove public transport card that costs 105 euros for three months, which allows you to use all public transit (metro, tram, trains, renfe, buses). When signing your housing contract, always be sure to ask if the expenses are included, if there's Wi-Fi, if there is a deposit and if it gets refunded. Do not trust housing agencies.