Erasmus Experience in Faro, Portugal by Giulia

Why did you choose to go to Faro, Portugal?

I chose Faro because of the courses that the university of Algarve offers and because it is quite well-served by flight paths.

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

My scholarship could last up to one entire academic year.

I received only 230 euros per month, plus some extras given only at the end of the Erasmus.

What is the student lifestyle like in Faro?

The lectures and practical classes can be both in the morning or in the afternoon and normally they are quite interactive. There are also field trips (paid in my year). People are very friendly, therefore it's easy to make new friends and enjoy the time at uni!

There are a lot of bars surrounding Gambelas Campus and after uni there's always time for a drink in some good company.

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

Yes, I would, definitely!

What is the food like?

It is amazing. I was very sceptical at first, but now I love Portuguese food.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Faro?

Not at all, it was super easy.

How much does it cost to live in Faro?

It is cheap. On average, a room is between 160 and 220 per month (including expenses).

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

On a first approach Portuguese sounds really "ãoãoão". Weird. After a while it gets easier and easier to understand it, especially having the chance to speak with Portuguese friends and attending the language classes.

The classes are available at uni but too busy in the 1st semester. The second semester is pretty much more quite. Then I would advise to book the Portuguese course in advance (as soon as arriving in Faro, or even before) if going for the 1st semester.

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

By plane.

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

Either to "Jam bar" or to the "Bar dos Artistas", both located in the old city.

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

I would recommend "Il Forte" (Faro beach) and "MasTostas" (city centre-in front of Seu Cafe) for toasts. Those toasts are amazing!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Well there's not much to see to be honest. The old centre is nice, but nothing special.

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

Visit Ria Formosa! The landscape is amazing! Visit the nautical centre at the beach. You can have surf classes for a very good price and rent kayaks or boards for other activities.