Erasmus Experience in Fort-De-France, Martinique by Ben

Why did you choose to go to Fort-De-France, Martinique?

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A study placement from my University to improve my French for a year.

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

An academic year of 10 months, September to June. I get funding from Erasmus as well as French government grants such as the CAF (for accomodation).

What is the student lifestyle like in Fort-De-France?

Most of the students live on campus in Schoelcher, a small town where the University is situated which is outside Fort-de France. The student lifestyle is very different to a European university. Although the central campus provides a natural social point, it is small and the only real meeting point is outside the cafeteria. As an erasmus student you will meet many more people in your situation, which will ease the settling in period. There are organisations such as the Conseil Du Residents which organise activities and soirées campus-wide, they are well worth getting to know as they provide a good platform for student life.

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Would you recommend the city and the University of Fort-De-France to other students?

I would, it's a new cultural experience, the mix of French and Caribbean cultures is unique and in Fort de France you can see them side by side.

What is the food like?

A real mix, you have to go searching if you want local Creole food. Luckily the French influence means that a baguette and a croissant are never too far away

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Fort-De-France?

The University provides accomodation on campus in Schoelcher, and the rent is currently around €250 a month, which is very reasonable. Students also live off campus.

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How much does it cost to live in Fort-De-France?

Living cost is high due to French government tariffs and import costs. Realistically, that means that when you go shopping you won't be stocking up on fresh meat, for example. Accommodation aside, you can expect European prices in supermarkets and restaurants.

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

Everyone speaks french which a slight Creole accent, and people aren't too hard to understand although they often speak quickly. People also speak Creole, the colloquial dialect of the island, and there are beginner courses available at the Uni for those wishing to learn it.

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What's the easiest or most economical way to travel around Fort-De-France?

Good question. I share a car with 2 friends which we bought and are planning to sell back, but otherwise, the buses work fine. If not hitchhiking is considered safe and economical here, so give that a go.

Would you recommend to go on a night out in Fort-De-France? If yes, where?

Not really, there's no real nightlife, a couple of bars like 'Garage Populaire' and there are 1 or 2 clubs outside FDF, but these aren't aimed at students so it's normally an expensive night out.