Erasmus Experience in Faro, Portugal by Lauma

Why did you choose to go to Faro, Portugal?

There were many reasons, but mostly it was the nice weather about which were excited my friends at my home university. As far as I know, I am already the 5th student from my university in Latvia, who comes to Faro in Erasmus. I had lots of amazing stories about the Erasmus experience in Faro - about the great weather, nice people and more and more.

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

For me the scholarship is 5 months - mostly it is 3 or 5 months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Faro?

Students are passionate about what they do - they do amazing projects, realize new ideas and are on the wave. At least that is what I have seen in from my Portuguese classmates. Of course, all Erasmus students are party animals, a big thanks we have to say to ESN Algarve - they do a great job to help us integrate in here.

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

Yes, I recommend the Uniersity of Algarve, well, I recommend that what I can recommend - the Communication faculty.

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What is the food like?

The food is amazing! Believe me. I tried. I felt in love with the Portuguese gourmet.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Faro?

I found it quickly. The people are very nice here and help you to find it, in a week you can find a nice and not so expensive apartment.

How much does it cost to live in Faro?

It depends. If you want to live just in Faro and not travel around, you can live quite well. If you want to travel a little, you have to make some savings.

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

Well - what language do we speak about? If English - no problems, but if Portuguese - than you have to be prepared to give a lot of work to learn the language properly. Yes, there are available any kind of language courses in the university.

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?

To the downtown. You can try every club or bar there and find something special for yourself. I like Partimonio, CheSsenta Bar, O Castelo - Cidade Velha, etc.

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

There are many nice cafés in the Downtown and near the Marina, also elsewhere in the city. Also you can have a good meal at Forum Algarve - the shopping center.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The historical center.

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

Come here, if you want to do things without a hurry. Here life is slower and you can concentrate on your goals much more. This is also a great place to make friends - come and enjoy it! :)