Erasmus Experience in Dublin, Ireland by Ariel

Why did you choose to go to Dublin, Ireland?

For many reasons. But I think that mostly because I was truly in love with videos and things I read about Dublin, the Irish culture and the Irish way of life.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dublin?

Buzzing! There are many places for young people there, especially Temple Bar. Although Temple Bar can be kind of an expensive hotspot, Dublin have hundreds of other places with pubs and clubs that have cheap prices for you to buy good drinks and beer. And it can get better, a lot of them with free entrance and live music!

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

For sure! If you like a big city that a looks like a small city, this is your place. And the University of Dublin is remarkable, one of the top colleges there.

What is the food like?

Not so good to be honest, but if you know how to cook or don't mind to eat in restaurants, you can handle. I would recommend Turkish Kebab and Italian and Brazilian Food.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Dublin?

Yes, a lot actually. That was the worst part of my time in there. It took more then 1 month. It's really crowded and with a few places available. And truly expensive for what they have to offer.

How much does it cost to live in Dublin?

That depends on each person and your lifestyle. But for me, something around 900 euros per month, counting with bills and acomodation.

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

For me it wasn't so hard, but some friends found it difficult to deal with The Irish accent. Sometimes when they speak fast, it can be a little trick. Yes, there are some, and they have English courses as a second language for those who need.

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

By airplane for sure. Ireland is a Island, I think that any other way would be more expensive. Unless you are coming from UK, because there are some ferries linking Dublin to Liverpool (England) or Cardiff (Wales). But I truly think that airplane is a better call, more yet if you are coming from any other country in Europe.

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

Temple Bar for sure. If you like pubs and clubs, live music, hot night life and a buzzing environment, that's the place for you!

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

That's a trick question. For me, Dublin isn't the best place for gastronomy. Most of the restaurants are expensive and not so good for the price. But there are 2 places that I really enjoyed. Fire Restaurant and Lounge and The Italian Conner, both with salty prices, but with great food and environment. Worth the visit.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Many. Dublin Castle, the biggest Castle inside the city, right at the city centre. Trinity College, the oldest university in Ireland. And for the history lovers like me, Natural History Museum is a good call!

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

Bring your coat and prepare yourself for the rain, strong wind, cold weather and a lot of beer and music in the friendly and buzzing environment of Dublin. And of course, enjoy every second in this city full of history, culture, mitology and stories to tell. I'm sure it will be unforgettable.