"Erasmus experience in Brno, Czech Republic" by Alexandre

Why did you chose to go to Brno, Czech republic?

I wanted to speak English and I had two choices available. Brno or a city in Finland. Brno is in central Europe (which is easier to travel in Europe), in a culture probably a bit different with Finland's and way cheaper!

How long is your stay? How much is your financial help?

I'll stay 10 months and I have approximately 2000€ per semester which is very reasonable to live in a country like Czech Republic. In addition to that, I have a scholarship from the CROUS (a french regional organisation that helps student with housing and financially), so it's all good.

How is student life in Brno?

Brno is a city where there are almost only students. The only weak point are the nightclubs linked to Erasmus, they're not so great...

Would you recommend Brno's city and university to other students?

Absolutely!

How is food in this country?

Gastronomy is not Czech republic's highlight. There is every reason to believe that the local food is in direct correlation with the daily hangovers. To put it bluntly, Czech food is to cure hangovers.

Did you have difficulties finding an accommodation in Brno?

Yes, you have to take care of it really early! A room (student residence or flatsharing) is much easier to find than an apartment.

What is the cost of living in Brno?

Comfortable.

How difficult is it to learn the language? Did you have courses offered by your university?

Yes, but Czech is unbelievably hard. I gave up as almost everyone else did, but it doesn't matter because Czech people are really good with communicating in English.

What is the cheapest way to go to Brno from your city?

From Paris, I go to Bratislava, Prague or Vienne, then from one of these cities I take a bus with the company Student Agency.

What places would you recommend to party in Brno?

Elektra, Club desert, Livingstone and Tamaryn.

And what are your favorite places to eat in Brno?

Turescky kebap and Elektra (you can eat in every bars).

What cultural outings would you recommend?

The Špilberk castle and all the churches, they all have a different style.

Do you have a piece of advice for futur students?

If you work all summer and then you go to Brno, you will feel like the king of the world because everything is cheap! Especially the drinks, pints are 1€ wherever you are, in bars or nightclubs. Also, bars are closing at 4 or 5am. Nothing alike France, there, in Brno, we know how to have fun.