Experience in Barcelona, Spain, by Cristina

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

I am from Barcelona and I can assure you that it's the best city in the world. It has everything: sun, beaches, mountains, culture, parties, etc... Everything is easily accessible and the people are very open. It's the perfect city for an Erasmus exchange.

What's the student life like in Barcelona?

Barcelona is filled with students from all over the world. Being Catalonia's capital, all the universities are here, thus the clubs prepare university parties, and even the universities plan some parties of their own. There are several student discounts in the stores and leisure activities for the students as well. In general, the ambiance is excellent; Barcelona is a student paradise!

How much does it cost to live in Barcelona?

Barcelona is Spain's most expensive city, however it is possible to find apartments for 300 euros per person, per month, seeing as the city is teaming with student apartments. Cover charges for clubs can go up to around 15 euros, however it's always possible to get onto the guest list and get in for free. In terms of the metro, you can get a T-10 pass and it will cost you a mere 10 euros. In terms of cafes, it depends on where you go but standard prices for coffee are around two euros. Food at the supermarket is not expensive, only certain supermarkets cost a little bit more, such as Mercadona, Condis, Caprabo, etc...

How is the local food like? What are your favorite dishes?

The food is some of the best you'll find. The fideuà is one of the best Catalan dishes and it's delicious! Another dish that not everybody from outside likes is tomato-bread with Serrano ham or Spanish tortilla.

What would you recommend visiting in Barcelona?

Of course it's necessary to visit everything related to Gaudi: the Sagrada Familia, the Guell Park, the Pedrera building found on Passeig de Gracia street, and I would even recommend visiting the Carmel bunkers, which are located in Barcelona's suburbs.

What are your favorite restaurants in Barcelona?

The Gracia neighborhood there are teaming with restaurants and small bars, most things being reasonably priced and featuring a wide variety of food and drinks, varying from Oriental food to take-away frankfurters. Of course, there are always some sophisticated restaurants in the area as well, such as a restaurant called Bocagrande, which is located on a small passageway between Rambla Cataluña and Passeig de Gracia.

Where are the best places to go party in Barcelona?

The best clubs are the ones located near the Olympic port, such as Pacha, Shoko, Opium... and the ones found on Calle Tusset, which are Bling Bling and Sutton. In all of these clubs you may end up finding some members of the Barcelona football team...

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

Don't get overwhelmed, it is an enormous city, however with the large quantity of students that you can find here you'll feel right at home. Even the stores and the locales will welcome you with open arms.