Erasmus Experience in Cologne, Germany by Chih-Ning

Why did you choose to go to Cologne, Germany?

It’s a big city, near the Netherlands and Düsseldorf.

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

The duration of the scholarship is probably 5 months. It was a big help to me, I really appreciate I got this opportunity. It not only helped with my living cost, but it also covered completely the cost of my journey.

What is the student lifestyle like in Cologne?

It’s really calm, flexible and chill. There isn’t that pressure as in Taiwanese college.

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

Yap, I will!

What is the food like?

Abundant and often I couldn’t finish it.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Cologne?

Yes.

How much does it cost to live in Cologne?

I spent €490 per month. Since I lived there for 6 months, it made probably a total of €2940.

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

Our university is an international school, the Köln International School of Design (KISD). So it is easy to get along with it. Yes, there is a language course, but I wasn’t familiar with the teaching method and I didn’t learn too much, so I dropped it off eventually.

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

I am not sure, because from my city to Germany the flight ticket probably costs around €800 and €1000 (each), so I think that maybe travelling with a student card is the most economical way.

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

To a friend’s flat party? Haha. Most of the time I spent the night at home. I don’t have much idea.

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

Die Fette Kuh! (it is an American fast-food restaurant, located in Südstadt).

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I probably only suggest the Ludwig Museum because it has a really complete Art History in curating.

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

Watch out the trains! They often change their timetable unexpectedly. So take it easy!

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