Erasmus Experience in Dublin, Ireland by Giada

Why did you choose to go to Dublin, Ireland?

I choose Dublin, first of all because I wanted to make the experience to visit a place different from the big cities like London, Paris.. etc.

It wasn't love at first sight when I arrived there for the first time. I've never been in that city and everything was so strange for me.

But now after 3 month I'm home and I miss Dublin so much.

Is a wonderful city, is full of young people, there are lots of thing to do (even if it not seems so) and a lot of places to visit.

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

I was in Dublin for 3 months. For all my Erasmus Placement I received 1500 € and I had to add other 1500 €.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dublin?

Is simple but the city is always full of people, lots of pub.

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

Yes, Is a great place where to make the Erasmus. I was there in particular for an internship (Erasmus placement) in a crèche (kindergarten). It was great.

What is the food like?

I'm from Italy and there is no comparition between italian and irish food but, anyway, I can say that the hamburger is lovely and the big fries potetos too! Also you have to try the Irish breakfast, a good one is in the Murreys pub in O'Connell street. If you will find in dish smash potatoes under the sausages or meat, is normal, and is very good! Try it!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Dublin?

I found my accommodation (a tween room) from Italy with a private agency and I remained there for all time.

How much does it cost to live in Dublin?

Sure, you need money. For three month I spent 3000 € in total.

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

At the beginning, maybe you can be shy when you talk in english, and you will fill like you're not good in, but after some time, you will get it.; )

I wasn't In a University.

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

I travelled from Italy By plane.

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

I recommend absolutely to go in "the celt pub on saturday night! There is a very nice group that play irish music! I love them. The food too is very good!

If you want to dance you can go in the dicey's garden.

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

• the Celt Pub
• the Murre's pub
• the oldest irish pub
• the Market bar

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I don't know.

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Dublin?

Find the time to travel around Ireland. There are so many beautiful place you can't imagine:

• Cliffs of Moher (the landscape is breathtaking even if there is so much wind)
• Galway
• Giant of Causeway
• Cork
• Ennyskerry's waterfall
• Malahide
• Bray (try to reach ther the cross up in the mountain)
• Dalkey (is so nice and there is a lovely cafè restaurant)

Have great time! :)