Erasmus Experience in Bratislava, Slovakia by Jorge

Why did you choose to go to Bratislava, Slovakia?

Basically, because it is a country in Central Europe from which it is easy to travel, where the standard of living is lower than it is in Spain.

How long did your grant last? How much financial aid did you receive?

My grant lasted 10 months, meaning, the entire duration of the course. I got €300 per month for 7 months from the government, that's €2, 100 in total (€200 from the basic grant + €100 from last year's grant).

Also, depending on your local administration, there are additional grants available in every area.

What is student life like in Bratislava?

It's incredible. I live in the university's student residence, called Mlyny. 300 Erasmus students live there, of which 150 of us are Spanish. The residence is full of life and the atmosphere and the parties are amazing. Without doubt, the best decision I made was coming to live in this residence.

Would you recommend the city of Bratislava and its university to other students?

Of course. Although it may seem like Bratislava has nothing to offer, I study at the INEF (the National Institute for Physical Education) in Spain and honestly the level of the faculty here is quite high, having prominent professors on their staff.

Regarding the city, to me, it seems perfect to live in. It's a small city but it has everything you need, plus an enviable public transport system.

What is the local food like?

Ok, it's not what I like most about Slovakia. If you come here, obviously you have to try Halusky and the traditional soups. Normally, the best place to try these dishes is at Slovak Pub, they have discounts for students there!

Was it difficult to find acommodation in Bratislava?

Not at all, the university will offer you a place in a student residence. You might hear some negative opinions of the residence, but, from this year onwards, Erasmus students are in a different building with really nice rooms, although they are shared between 2 or 3. The bathroom is shared between 10, but this isn't normally an issue.

Honestly, I would encourage people to come to the Mlyny residence, it's already like a mini city in itself. It has some bars and even a club, called Unique. On Tuesdays, people from all over Bratislava come to Unique and if you want to, you could even go in light, summery clothing as you don't have to leave the building to get to it (something you will be very grateful for from November onwards).

How much does it cost to live in Bratislava?

Well, for me, the residence costs €72 a month, because I live in a double room with a balcony in the refurbished area. It's the most expensive, but the cheaper rooms are around €44 and are just as good. Then, eating in the residence's canteen costs €1. 50-€2. 50 per meal (it's cheaper to go to the supermarket and cook) and the food is pretty good. What can make your life here more expensive are the trips, while students get free train travel Slovakia, a return journey to Budapest, for example, costs €8. 50.

How did you deal with the language? Did you take any courses at the university?

Well, with Slovak I didn't do very well. I know the most useful words like "Good morning", "please" or "thank you", but I didn't get further than that. No, I didn't go on any courses.

What is the easiest or most affordable way to get to Bratislava from your city?

From Lugo, I took a flight from Santiago to Madrid and then another from Madrid to Bratislava, if you manage to book ahead of time, it can end up being very cheap. Then there's another option, depending on the dates, that is flying from Santiago to Barcelona and then from Barcelona to Vienna. The bus from Vienna to Bratislava costs €5 and picks you up from the airport.

Where would you recommend going on a night out in Bratislava?

Of course, the club in the residence, Unique. Sometimes we go to The Club on Thursdays because they put on loads of Erasmus parties on the boat where they do the Erasmus Student Network parties. To drink before the party, of course go to the Bar On, where half a litre (just more than a pint) of beer costs €1.

Here's our secret, get half a litre of beer and add a shot of vodka (also €1).

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

Well, I would say that Slovak Pub is the best without a doubt. Also, if you don't mind paying a bit more, like €10-11, the Pullitzer is the best, they serve amazing food there.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Castle, of course, the city centre, especially at this time of the year with the Christmas market, and the Church of St. Elisabeth (also known as the Blue Church).

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

Have no doubt about it. I was very nervous to come to Bratislava and it has been the best decision I've ever made. I've met loads of people just here in the residence, I've travelled for very little money to half of Europe and, above all, I've had the best year of my life. If you want to enjoy the Erasmus experience 100%, Bratislava is the city for you.