Erasmus Experience in Caen, France by Anissa

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Why did you choose to go to Caen, France?

Caen is my hometown.

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

I don't know about that because I am French so I guess it's different for Erasmus students.

What is the student lifestyle like in Caen?

It's a small town but there are a lot of pubs and restaurants. So party party party. Also lots of opportunities to visit the city, the museums, etc.

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

Yes, I think it's a very good city for an Erasmus experience. Also it's very easy to get to Caen or to travel around and there are lots of things to see.

What is the food like?

Very cheesy and with a lot of crème fraîche! Yummy and pretty cheap!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Caen?

I'm living at my parents'! But it's pretty expensive if you wanna live downtown.

How much does it cost to live in Caen?

I would say something like 350/400 euros a month for a one-bedroom flat downtown.

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

Yes there are and concerning the language, well again, I'm French so... that's easy yes.

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

From European countries, a flight to Paris and then a train Paris-Caen.

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

Rue écuyère first and then O'donnells!

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

• La buona tavola;
• Maître Corbeau;
• Chez Patoch;
• Restaurants in the Vaugueux area as well;
• L'escargot entêté;
• Dolly's;
• La ficelle.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

• The castle of Caen;
• Arromanches, a city next to Caen with its 360° theatre;
• Le Mont Saint Michel;
• Le Mémorial;
• Les plages du débarquement;
• Tapisserie de Bayeux;
• Cities next to Caen: Honfleur, Deauville, Cabourg.

And many other things!

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Caen?

Don't be afraid because it's a small and rainy town, you'll have a blast in Caen! Even though it's a small city there are a lot of things to do and to see! And the most important thing, don't hesitate to socialize with French people, we can be pretty cold at first sight but don't get fooled it's only because some of us are shy and hesitant, everything vanishes with a smile and a cute Erasmus accent in French.