Erasmus Experience in Buenos Aires, Argentina by Jaina

Why did you choose to go to Buenos Aires, Argentina?

Having been learning Spanish for 4 years, I thought that going to a Spanish speaking country would be ideal! I decided to be brave and choose South America, even though I had never been somewhere so far away by myself before. I chose Argentina because of the amazing things that I had heard about the culture, people, travelling opportunities and nightlife there.

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

I received a £1000 Santander scholarship. This helps a lot with rent as well as living costs such as groceries because the cost of living in Buenos Aires is actually quite expensive.

What is the student lifestyle like in Buenos Aires?

Student lifestyle here is amazing! It is a city filled with students because of the amount of universities situated here, but it is also a city that never sleeps. There is something to do here 24/7, ranging from bars, restaurants, theatres and of course clubs! I have loved my student experience here!

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

I would definitely recommend choosing to study here because you will be able to experience a country and culture that is really different from Europe and won't regret it.

What is the food like?

I thought that being a vegetarian in one of the meat capital's of the world would be tough, however I never had any problems here with food. There are loads of eating places, both cheap and expensive, and the supermarkets have everything you need. I wouldn't recommend Argentine pizza though! Also, two things you have to try are the medialunas and alfajores - Argentina loves its sweet food!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Buenos Aires?

Before arriving here, I booked an Airbnb in Palermo so I could visit apartments in person, rather than booking permanent accommodation online. There are so many student apartments that it is easy to find accommodation when you arrive in Buenos Aires. The main areas that I would recommend living in are Palermo and Recoleta.

How much does it cost to live in Buenos Aires?

The rent that I pay is $500 USD per month, which is quite expensive but it's a lovely shared apartment. Prices range though and there are always houses available. The cost of things here, like clothes, restaurants, shoes, food etc. are a lot more expensive than I thought though so be prepared!

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

Not many people here speak English, so you are forced to try and learn Spanish which is a good thing! After a few weeks, the language will be really familiar and it's quite easy to learn too! Universidad Austral offers Spanish courses which helps a lot.

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

The public transport here is amazing! Both the Subte (subway/metro) and buses here are really cheap and easy to use. You can also use Uber!

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

The main neighbourhood for nightlife is Palermo for sure. I would recommend bars like Buddha bar, Temple bar and Crobar nightclub! The city is alive all night so it's not hard to find something to do in the evenings. Also people here don't go out until 1am and clubs close at 6am, so be prepared to adopt a completely new sleeping pattern!

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Buenos Aires?

One of my favourite places for healthy food here is Green Eat- a bit pricey but tasty! El Gato Negro is also great!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Recoleta cemetery, Casa Rosada, Tigre, San Telmo's Sunday market, El Caminito en La Boca and the cathedral near Casa Rosada. Also, if you have the chance, try to travel around Argentina to places like Mendoza, Patagonia and Iguazu falls! They are all amazing!

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

Don't hesitate to choose Buenos Aires just because it is far away or because you don't speak the language. It has been one of my best experiences so far!