Erasmus Experience in Faro, Portugal by Marie

Why did you choose to go to Faro, Portugal?

Faro is the city with the most sunshine hours in the world :)

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

I got just a small scholarship (200€) for at least 7 month. I needed 500€ per month.

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

Yes, of course. The university is well organized and the people are very nice.

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What is the food like?

I can't recommend the food in Portugal at all - especially for vegetarians. Traditional food: meat or fish with fries or rice. But the restaurants inside the campus prepare very good "toastas mistas".

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Faro?

No, it wasn't harder or easier to find an accommodation than in other cities. You can find accommodation offers at the university black board.

How much does it cost to live in Faro?

500€ per month.

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

Most of the professors speak English. Portuguese isn't easy to learn and it is hard to get a place in the language course. But I could do all my papers, etc. in English.

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

By plane (~150€).

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

Artistas, Columbus, Ba and all the clubs close to the harbour.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Ilha deserta and rent a car and explore the whole Algarve.

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

Be calm, don't try to understand Portuguese mentality at all and see your Erasmus stay as an adventure.