Erasmus Experience in Cordoba, Spain by Elise

Why did you choose to go to Cordoba, Spain?

I chose to study in Cordoba for its history, its culture and because it is located in Andalusia, a region I have dreamed of since I was little. I had the impression it was big enough not to get bored but also small enough not to get lost (which happened anyway... ).

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How long is the grant available for? How much money did you receive as support?

I am staying in Cordoba for three months. I received an Erasmus scholarship from France, as well as a scholarship from my region, Poitou-Charentes. In total I received over 2000 euros.

What's the student ambiance like in Cordoba?

There is an organisation for Erasmus students, IESN Cordoba, which organises lots of nights out, tours and trips for foreign students in Cordoba. It's a great platform for meeting many people from all over the world.

Would you recommend the city and the university of Cordoba to other students

I would recommend this city to those looking to make a close group of friends, because the city is a comfortable size, if it were to be any bigger it would lose some of its value. One can appreciate the culture, the monuments and the bars for at least a year as a student.

How would you describe the food from Spanish culture?

The diet leaves a lot to be desired, many typical dishes are fried. They love olive oil on their toast. In Spain they eat five meals per day!

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What is the national cuisine like?

It isn't difficult to find accommodation in the city. The difficult part is finding something which suits your needs. If you are staying for a year, bear in mind that it is cold in winter. Temperatures can drop to 0°C at night! Take that into consideration. Internet costs are very rarely included in the rent, usually it's necessary to make a subscription. In general, apartments are gas heated, it's very rare to find electric-heating.

Don't be startled by the old-style of the apartments, it's normal, there are no - or little - exceptions.

What's the cost of living in Cordoba?

Costs of food is relatively low. Fuel is just as expensive as in France. Accommodation is cheaper, the minimum salary in Spain is about 600 euros per month. In general, you can find a place to rent for between 160 and 200 euros, that's the price one pays to rent a bedroom but includes all of the other rooms (kitchen, living room, etc. ).

How is it learning of the language? Did you have language classes organised by the university?

There are language courses organised in all of the faculties. The courses last for a few weeks and are a good way to meet new people.

What's the cheapest way to get to Cordoba from your city?

The cheapest way from my city is by bus, seeing as I took big suitcases and I only pay 100 euros, but time is money: the trip takes 22 hours.

Which spots would you recommend for partying in Cordoba?

Gongora Gran Café, Palazzio, Yoko, Banhager.

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And to eat out in Cordoba? What are your favourite places?

You have to try everything!

Which cultural sights would you recommend?

Buy yourself a tourist guide, it's not so stupid to do a bit of touristing from time to time.

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Any advice for future students in Cordoba?

Don't hesitate to enquire about the city, ask any questions which come to mind, there are no stupid questions! One of the first questions I ask was, "is the tap water drinkable?"