My Erasmus Experience in Coventry, United Kingdom. By Maria.

Why did you choose to go to Coventry, United Kingdom?

I chose this city because one of my friends had done their Erasmus here, and it was a city that had a lot of student atmosphere. The prices of accommodation and stay were a lot more accessible than in other places in the UK.

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

In my case it was €2, 000, but the Ministry was quite late in giving it to us. On the other hand, if you have received a Ministry grant during the other years you've been at uni, it's important that you continue asking for it so that they can enter the course, at least.

It is also important that you inform them if the university is giving you any kind of help. For example, the University of Valencia gives you a kind of scholarship which allows you to cover your Erasmus for about five months. However, I have to say that between the accommodation, books, trips and your bills, you will always need to put money in your backpack.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Coventry?

Very good! The city is perfect for students. There are lots of pubs and some clubs that are quite good. Furthermore, when you spend a couple of months there, you'll already know everyone because it's not very big at all.

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

Of course. Well, it's not beautiful, but if you're going to study and have a good time, get to know people... It's a great and comfortable place to live.

What is the food like?

HORRIBLE. That's it. But that's what it's like in the whole of England, too. You're going to suffer trying to find proper tomato sauce, I assure you. So now you can stuff yourself with sausage and stews, because the food is disgusting.

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Was it difficult to find accommodation in Coventry?

You have to look and check. The most comfortable places are the residences, but if you want to practise your language and get to know people from other cultures, I would advise you to find a house with other students. The prices are usually around £300 (if you find something cheaper, don't trust it). You can find the houses on RightMove, but before paying anything make sure that the agency is real (calling on the telephone is the best option) and I would recommend that you find an agency, you pay a little for the process, but they are responsible if something happens. Also, if you can visit the house before paying anything, make sure that it's in a good location and condition!

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

At the start it sounded like Chinese to me, but once you adapt to the accent it's all fine. You can learn a lot by living away from home. I didn't go to any course, but the university did offer one.

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

The best thing to do is travel to Birmingham and get a bus from there to Coventry.

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

Depending on the week, there is always a party going on somewhere. Personally, my favourite pubs are Quids Inn or Pheonix. Then, to go out after there's JJs or Kasbah. Although, house parties are the best.

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

Wetherspoons is good and cheap (with a thousand types of beer), Cosmo is also very good and then there are loads of fast food places.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Transport museum is good and the Cathedral ruins, too.

Do you have any advice for students coming to Coventry in the future?

Personally, I would advise that you make sure your house is in a good state before you start living in Coventry, it is worth it to look at it in person and check it over. It is also important to go in with an open mind, especially at the start. And that's it, have a great time, there's only one Erasmus and it's incredible! And you can go all year round, no doubt about it!

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