Experience in Brest, France by Florian

What was the city of Brest like to live in? Would you recommend it?

It is a cold city with quite a strange atmosphere. I managed to deal with it, but I wouldn't recommend living there.

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What is the student life like in Brest?

There are a lot of students in Brest. The only interesting nights out are student nights out, and the different evens organised by the student associations and the schools.

What is the cost of living in Brest?

It is not excessively expensive in Brest. It is a big city but the prices are still okay. Also, for renting, it's a very attractive city. For example, an apartment of 115m2 with 4 bedrooms, the rent would not be more than 800 euros (200 euros per person).

Is it hard to find accommodation in Brest? Do you have any advice to give?

As I said before, it is very easy to find accommodation in Brest.

What is the food like in Brest? What are your favorite dishes?

The food is very pleasant and varied. My favourite dish in Brest would have to be the "galettes" (savoury pancakes).

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What places would you recommend seeing in Brest?

In Brest, there isn't a lot to see. You have to get away from the city to see the magnificent beaches and countryside. A car is advised.

What about for eating in Brest? Can you tell us your favourite places?

"O'Bagel" in 'la rue de Siam' has recently opened. It's a small American fast food joint with bagels being the theme. The food is fresh and with cheap prices. There are also various kebab shops, but the quality is unpredictable. Also, my favourite restaurant is "La Bulle" in 'la rue de Lyon' but it is quite expensive. At the commercial area there is also a lot of nice little restaurants (TexMex, Le boeuf sur le quai etc.. ) And finally, there is a restaurant for savoury crepes of choice near the commercial area called "Au fil des crepesé et il vaut vraiment le détour".

What places would you recommend for going out in Brest?

For bars, I recommend la Guarrida, it's a small Tapas and Wine bar. Also, there is often a lot of students in 'Le Murphy's'. For night clubs, my favourite is 'La Chamade', the atmosphere there is great, and the average age is higher, around 25. Le Stendal is also good, with two different atmospheres on two different floors. There is also a good mix of people there. For the younger people, I would recommend La Villa à Guipavas and La Suite in the commercial area.

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What advice would you give to future Erasmus student going to Brest?

You must at all costs go to the student nights out to have a great time in a fun and safe environment. Yes, Brest is a city that can be agonising or even dangerous at night.