Experience in Barcelona, Spain by Fatehi

Why did you choose to go to Barcelona, Spain?

I have chosen Barcelona as my city of studies for many reasons despite the fact that I've been living and frequently travelling to different cities & countries around the world in the past five years. in my views Barcelona is a city full of culture and diversity, weather, food, Languages and the beauty of the city which mix the modern and ancient styles! It's well-connected metro transportation, and of course, the first reason it is home to the Comp Nou of the best football club FC Barcelona. If you are a football fan like me, that it helps you to cope with the studies pressure and also to socialize more and meet other like-minded and foster life long friendships along with your study colleagues and lastly you will learn two beautiful languages, Spanish & Catalan at once.

What is the student lifestyle like in Barcelona?

Barcelona student life is relaxed and intense academic at the same time with many separate campuses and libraries for reading in groups or solo. And UB has a lot of activities, ranging from sport to other social events.

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

Yes for sure, the city and the UB are very nice places to study and also to enjoy the city during the weekends.

What is the food like?

The best thing is the diversity of the cuisines ranging from the Mediterranean to the most international and the local Spanish dishes like Tapas etc..., also there is a variety of markets like the mercado de la boqueria if you want to buy and cook your own food.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Barcelona?

Yes, I think this also one of the most complicated to do besides the NIE for foreign students if your studies will last more than three months, the best advice is to get to Barcelona a minimum of two or three weeks early to search for accommodation or if you know some people already will be the best way as with the rush of university opening accommodation is difficult to get.

How much does it cost to live in Barcelona?

In my views one disadvantage of Barcelona can be costly than other cities due to the enormous tourists in the city; however, there are always ways to save money like cooking at home and only visit restaurants during weekends with colleagues. And there is no need to live in the centre of the city because using public transport is so efficient and comfortable.

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

At first, it seems it quite challenging as most Spanish people expect you to speak as fluent as they are, "at least my experience", but with the time it is gratifying, and you will learn fast. There is a free Catalan course by the university, and also there are Spanish free courses elsewhere. So with the languages is definitely easy to find classes at your level.

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

There are many spots in the city, but I like concert type usually so Palau de la Música Catalana is a great concert hall you can check. And for partying you have to know that here party means till the morning, so you can check Moog club which has super music and DJs.

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

Enjoy hard and study hard, enjoy the amazing city and don't miss the big football games, the city is super crazy during the games days, you will figure out why FC Barcelona is always winning in its home. Gracias