My Erasmus in Dublin, Ireland, by Noelia
What appeals to you about living in Dublin? Do you recommend it? What is it like?
It seems like a charming city to live in, except for the climate... Personally, I like the sun and hot weather, and it rains a lot in Dublin...
But, thanks to that rain, there are lots of beautiful green landscapes.
It's very recommendable. Besides, it's not too big of a city, nor too noisy, aside from the most central areas where the tourists crowd around.
What is student life like in Dublin?
The atmosphere is really good - there are lots of Erasmus students and this sees a multitude of different cultures come together, which makes you learn a little bit about each of them! The Irish are also very much inclined to help if they see that they can lend you a hand; mind you though, they are a little closed off when it comes to becoming friends.
How much does it cost to live in Dublin?
It depends on the area and what each individual values as being necessary with regards to housing... There are reasonable prices for everything, but food and leisure activities, amongst other things, are slightly more expensive that the prices we are used to in a city like Salamanca. But, when compared to other cities, like Madrid, for example, there's not that much difference. You can always like in a shared room, which is a much cheaper option for accommodation.
Was it difficult for you to find accommodation in Dublin? Can you give any advice about this?
No, it didn't take too long... about 8 days, more or less. The best thing to do is to visit websites like Daft.ie and look at Facebook groups dedicated to housing in Dublin. But, truly the best thing to do would be to call or text the landlords, as they don't normally reply to emails.
What is the food like in Ireland? What are your favourite dishes?
The food in Ireland really isn't for me! Where is the typical Spanish food hiding? You could get rid of all the food in Dublin, except for a couple of dishes: there are mini sausages, which you would assume are for breakfast, but after a bowl of soup, they are really good.
Which places do you recommend visiting in Dublin?
Any of the city's big parks because they are beautiful: Saint Stephen's Green, Phoenix Park, National Botanic Gardens... Then, you also have to go to the shopping streets, like Grafton Street, which cannot be missed, not just for the shops, but also for the street artists there. Above all, you must visit Trinity College - it's amazing.
And eating out in Dublin? Can you mention your favourite places?
Londis! It's a supermarket that is found on almost every street corner in the city centre and has cheap, yet very good, sandwiches. However, I don't know of any other places because I usually eat at home!
Which places do you recommend for nightlife in Dublin?
For going out on Tuesdays, Diceys, it's great! On Saturdays, our go-to place was, without a doubt, Fitzsimons. The latter two places are great, but Mercantil and Dandelion are also really good.
Is there any advice that you want to give to future students in Dublin?
Make the most of your stay there to soak up the Irish culture and enjoy it as much as possible!
But, the best advice I can give you is that there is time for everything!
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