Erasmus Experience in Berlin, Germany by Sladana

Why did you choose to go to Berlin, Germany?

It's a beautiful city, the cost of living is not too high and the Universities have a great reputation.

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How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I am receiving an Erasmus scholarship for maximum of 10 months, 450€. My boyfriend gave me half of rent, even though, he wasn't much there.

What is the student lifestyle like in Berlin?

There is always a lot to do, go sightseeing, hangout and there are free parties almost every night. But I'm lazy, so I rather stayed inside.

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

Absolutely, you will not regret it.

What is the food like?

Well, there is not so much fresh vegetables and fruits in the shops, but otherwise it is ok. The food in restaurants is delicious and cost 10-20€ for a really good meal.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Berlin?

Finding a flat is the hardest part. There are too many people looking for one. I looked 30 apartments before I got one. The costs are really not too high (450€ for 35 square metres in a single apartment with the costs; the shared ones are cca. 300€).

How much does it cost to live in Berlin?

If you live on budget, you can get by with 400€ or 600€. I have a ticket for public transport provided by the university, otherwise are these really expensive.

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

I attend a language course for a whole semester, 4h a week, for 40€. The university courses are really cheap and ok. For a basic knowledge of German one needs at least a month of intensive everyday training. I suggest you do it before coming to Germany.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Berlin from your city?

You can find some cheap flights at Germanwings, but there are also some buses for 50€ in one direction.

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

A movie in Imax Sony Centrum and then party in a nearby local.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Berlin?

At Potsdamer Platz there is a good and really affordable Italian restaurant, called Vapiano.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

• Brandenburger Tor.
• Bundestag.
• Unter den Linden.
• Alexanderplatz.
• Schloss Charlottenburg.
• Potsdam.

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Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Berlin?

Very important: do not download anything via internet!

I had to pay a fee of 815€ for one movie! This is important only if you steal illegal stuff from the Internet.