Experience in Cognac, France by Mylène

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

This is a beautiful little and touristic city. In the downtown there are old buildings and houses, you can walk along the quays (and why not visit the city on a boat) and this city has many "Maison de Cognac" (this city makes his own alcohol, Cognac, Pineaux, Grey Goose...) and you can visit it ! Historical part, how they make it, and some bottles are beautiful. There are historical museums too.
Around the city you can see all the vineyards, and many small villages.

What is the student lifestyle like in Cognac?

Cognac is not a town for students. You don't have many choices for your studies, a majority of people after the college or high school, moove to bigger cities (La Rochelle Bordeaux Poitiers Limoge...).
There is not university in Cognac. Or Advanced School.

How much does it cost to live in Cognac?

Live in Cognac is not so expansive, you can have an apartment for 200-300-400...€. (Much more in the downtown). Or you can live more in the country, in bigger apartments or houses. (Less expansive)

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

Cognac doesn't have typical food. Maybe "mogettes" (white beans), "escargots" (snails), but typical alcohol yes. Cognac, of course, Pineau des Charentes, Les Vins (wine).

What places would you recommend visiting in Cognac?

La place François Ie.
Le vieux Cognac.
Les quais.
I recommend you to visit Cognac during the summer ! Two festivals are organized (Le Blues Passion, La fête du Cognac) known or unknown singers come here during few days, this is awesome every year.
Les Maisons de Cognac.
You can also visit castle, church, museum.

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

Yes ! There are so many restaurants and bars where you can eat. My favourites spots are : Le Dugesclin, and Buffalo Grill.
(Also : Macdo Subway Pizza Kebab Sushi)

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

During the week-end yes, students (back home) and others meet in bars (Place François Ie) and some of them on saturday night go to the night club La Maison Blanche.

What advice would you give future students heading to Cognac?

You must visit Cognac during the summer, end of July or August! So many people to met, and many things to do !