Erasmus Experience in Córdoba, Spain, by Lydie

Why did you choose to go to Córdoba, Spain?

Because two girls from my class went there last year and told me it was good.

How long was your stay? How much financial support did you receive?

I stayed for 2 months. The amount of financial support depends on your parents income, generally you can get up to €1500 for the 2 months. You have to fill out forms for grants and loans from the department, the Erasmus scheme and the region.

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What is the student atmosphere like in Córdoba?

It has a friendly atmosphere, but it is worth reaching out to find other students who you get along with and can have fun.

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

Yes, it's a very nice city, the cost of living is not too expensive, but I would advise students to live in an accommodation with other students, because I was living with a host family and it was not the best.

What's the food like in this country?

Good, it often involves dishes made from fruits. The food is really good, but the dishes are a bit spicy, it's better not to be fooled by what the appearance of the food.

Did you have difficulty finding accommodation in Córdoba?

Well not really, because it was through the contacts of my teachers who suggested we go there. But with Erasmus, you can easily find a house or flat share on the website http://www.Erasmusu.com.

What is the cost of living in Córdoba?

It is less expensive than France because the minimum wage is not as high. Accommodation is very reasonable because it starts at around €150 per month for a room with all the amenities, with €300 to be paid for the most expensive.

How was it learning the language? Did you take a language course organised by the University?

You learn the language by hearing people speak or by watching TV, otherwise it is worth trying to speak to everybody to be able to progress. I did not go to any language courses.

What is the most economical mode of transport to get to Córdoba from your town?

I lived in Córdoba, so I used public transport (the bus). It costs €1. 20 per journey and there are buses from 6:30am until 11pm, and they come every 10 minutes. If not, the closest towns are Séville and Málaga, accessible by train for around €10-20.

Which places would you recommend to go for a night out in Córdoba?

"La casa de la juventud" is a youth centre where you can find plenty of students, and in particular students of all different nationalities. Or else, in the city centre there are night clubs open until 7 in the morning.

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

Burger King. Next to the botanical garden there is a typical Spanish restaurant which is moreover not that expensive with courses from €6.

And what cultural visits would you recommend?

The 'Mezquita' or mosque is a cathedral that is really beautiful. Also good are the zoo, the archaeological museum or again the botanical garden. All of these are situated in the centre of Córdoba.

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Some advice to give to future students of Córdoba?

Yes, first of all, to come here and stay in a house or flat share and not with a host family. To have a bit of money set aside because the bursaries come in later and what's more, it's always better to be able to go out and enjoy yourself. Otherwise, do not worry about your level of Spanish when you arrive, I had Year 10 level Spanish when I arrived and yet I succeeded in getting by and progressing. I also recommend going through the processes to get financial support (the Erasmus grant and help from the departments and regions) more than one month in advance before arriving. For work placements in Spain, it's better to organise it at least 5 months in advance.