Erasmus Experience in Belfast, United Kingdom by Raquel

Why did you choose to go to Belfast, The United Kingdom?

Because the University I went to, Queen's University Belfast, is one of the most valued in the UK, after Cambridge and Oxford, of course. In addition, it is not a very expensive city.

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How long was your stay? How much money did you receive in financial aid?

9 months. The money I received 150€ from the ministry, in addition to the amount given by my region's government (in this case Extremadura), along with money from the University. In total it was approximately 300€ per month.

However that money is received in 3 payments. First one after the first three months of your stay, the second one after 6 months and the third one is given once your stay has finished.

What's the student atmosphere like in Belfast?

It's a student city, at least in the University Quarter area, where you have everything you want; you don't even have to leave that area if you don't want to. With regard to the city, it's quite big; you can find everything just like in other cities.

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

Yes, it's very safe, despite the fact that there are is a lot of ongoing conflicts.

What's the food like?

Exactly the same as the rest of the United Kingdom. Lots of fast food and pre-cooked food, potatoes cooked in all different ways and fish and chips.

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Was it hard to find accommodation in Belfast?

No, I stayed in a university residence, so I did not have to look for a flat or house on my own.

How much is it to live in Belfast?

If you live in a residence, it's a bit more expensive than a shared flat, but there's not much difference. Living there can cost you between 600 and 800 euros per month, although if you want to live with a bit more austerity, 500 euros per month it's also fine.

What about the language, did you go to a class?

The language was sometimes impossible to understand, especially at the beginning. They speak English with a broad accent.

What's the most economical way to arrive in Belfast from your city?

I'm from Extremadura, so I had to get a train from Cáceres to Madrid, then take a flight to Dublin, and finally catch a bus to Belfast. From Dublin to Belfast it takes only 2 hours, so it's not worth taking two planes and it is way cheaper (even though I spent the whole day travelling).

Where would you recommend for a night out in Belfast?

There are lots of places, and each one has its own type of music and atmosphere. You just have to search around a bit for something you like (the nightlife area is near the Uni area). For example, I used to go to Limelight, because I really like Rock and Heavy Metal; for that reason I say it depends on the person and their preferences.

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And to eat out in Belfast? Can you name a few favourites?

There is an amazing place that is called Molly Malone which is very cheap and quite nice (not very healthy, but yummy).

And for culutral trips and visits?

You can visit the Giant's Causeway; Belfast city centre, rich in culture; Dublin, and the northern areas (Londonderry or Derry, a very interesting zone).

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Any other advice you would give to future students in Belfast?

If you do not understand what people are saying when they speak at the beginning, don't get downhearted; you will feel like home after 2 weeks and will understand the language as if it were your own language.