Erasmus Experience in Braga, Portugal by Cassiano

Why did you choose to go to Braga, Portugal?

my univerisity in Brazil has a agreement with Uminho.

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

Around 11 months.
Brazilians from the University Univille, does not receive any money to spend in living costs.

What is the student lifestyle like in Braga?

Student lifestyle, could be very diversified.

Mainly there are many events related with the portuguese university culture. They are waaay different from Brazil.
I could say in two worlds, study 4 days in a week, the rest party.

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

Sure.
Its a wonderful place, where you can experience very well the portuguese culture.

What is the food like?

A bit different from brasil, but not that much.
We often eat cow meat in brasil, but there no big deal in portugal.
I found it really great.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Braga?

no, i arrived with a booked room at uminho's santa tecla residence.
there are plenty of rules there, but its allright.
its a place where you can meet a lot of persons and have fun :)

How much does it cost to live in Braga?

you can live with 250 euros
pretty cheap.
but consider this values like... doing only what is necessary, living in the accomodation of university... with not much luxury

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

i did not have classes... but its a bit hard even to brazilian understand the portuguese.
after some days... maybe in the first week, you can understand very well

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

only by plane

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

sardinha
ba
and the bars at the university.
maybe since my time something has change but they was the best for students

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

at the mall, or at the restaurants near the university also.
Sabor da Fruta, was a nice restaurant, with good food and pretty cheap.
Chibaria was cool also!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

there are some religious places to visit... apart of that...there's no much if i'm not mistaken

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

if you can afford, rent a apartment near the university.
you will never regret.
take care with the gipsies, but dont worry too much.
and if you braga, as a option. consider it.
i've been twice there, and both where amazing.