Experience in Calcutta, India by Dalia

What is it like to live in Calcutta? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Summer is terrible. Humidity sucks here. Winter is pleasant. You may not have to even wear sweaters. Lol. Temperature remains as that of european summer!
If you're white people will stare but not out of hostility just out of curiosity. You simply ignore or smile at them. Some will smile back some will get confused and turn away. It's funny. I like living in the Salt Lake City. People have rather cosmopolitan outlook there. City centre 1 (because there's another now) is cool place to hang around with. Keep looking for places around salt lake you'll find plenty.

What is the student lifestyle like in Calcutta?

Very cheap.

How much does it cost to live in Calcutta?

10k INR should be good enough. That's about £100. Depends on the place too though. Don't forget to bargain.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Calcutta? Is there any advice you can give?

Not really. Now that there are several online portals. Ask them to send you pictures and how to commute to your location of work/study

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Staple here is Rice Daal Fish (fry/curry) and vegetables (cooked with mild spices)
I loved to search Indian recipes online and cook in my kitchen.

Is it good to eat out in Calcutta? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

I like eating Bengali sweets. You can't beat them. There are hundreds of desserts available and you'll have to eat to find your own favourite sweets. Do try 'misti doi' aka sweet yogurt.

Is the nightlife good in Calcutta? Where is good to go?

Nightlife is fine. Nothing extraordinary. Several new pubs can now be found in and around the city. Oldest being Park Street.

What advice would you give future students heading to Calcutta?

It may take few days for you to get used the overwhelming lifestyle here. I didn't like the men here who tried getting friendly and asked for number in the pubs