Experience in Espoo, Finland by Bonnie

What is it like to live in Espoo? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

It's been great living in Espoo. It's close to Helsinki so you can go there on weekends, take some walks, do some shopping,... Depends on the area you live in Espoo, but it's nice and quiet with lots of woods and trees, suitable for people who like nature and want to focus on studies. The city is nice with big shopping malls and entertainments. The weather is nice, less windy than in Helsinki, sometimes there are beautiful sunny days in the summer. So I would totally recommend to live in Espoo.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Espoo?

The student lifestyle is pretty much the same in Espoo, unless you choose to do it differently. Besides going to school and go home, there are big shopping malls and food stores you can go with your friends like Sello (Leppavaara) or Tapiola. laThere are karaoke bars and clubs to have some more fun at night.

How much does it cost to live in Espoo?

We can say it's cheaper than living in Helsinki. Still it depends on the regions you live, but generally it's about 400-500 euros per month for house rent, food and transportation.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Espoo? Is there any advice you can give?

The best and cheapest way for Erasmus students to find accommodation in Uusimaa regions (Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa) is by HOAS. You can apply where is suitable for your studies and they will find you a room. It may take a while (1-2 months) so it's best that you apply for HOAS before you come. You just need the confirmation that you are studying in some school in Finland and you can apply.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is great. Usually I like cooking at home, it's more easy and affordable. But when going out with friends, I usually go to Hesburger or Kung Food Panda, the food there is good

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

I usually go to Hesburger or Kung Food Panda, the food there is good. Or even fancier Koti Pizza. The Koti Pizza in Sello (Leppavaara) is known to be the best in all Koti Pizza across Finland.

Is the nightlife good in Espoo? Where is good to go?

Nightlife is good, there are night clubs and karaoke bars where you can go. It's not as crowed as in Helsinki but it's still fun.

What advice would you give future students heading to Espoo?

Apply for the house by HOAS first. And then be prepared for somewhat boring scenes but in return, nice neighborhood and quiet, natural, fresh atmosphere.