Erasmus Experience in Girona, Spain by Magdaléna

Why did you choose to go to Girona, Spain?

I chose Girona because of its location, it is near the coast and mountains as well. I wanted to learn more about catalan culture and it is also very near to all the destinations around Spain.

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

My scholarship lasts 5 months. I get for each month 400€.

What is the student lifestyle like in Girona?

Party, culture, sports, travelling. Everything is awesome :)

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

the city is amazing. Its old medieval centre is really mesmerising, however, the faculty of economics is not very good. It is easy, but not very professional.

What is the food like?

As a vegetarian I was surprised there is a lot of vegan and vegetarian restaurants. There is also a fruits/vegetables market twice a week and the prices are very low there. However, one of the traditional dishes is bread and a tomato, which is kind of witty.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Girona?

I found it in two days. It is very easy thanks to a Facebook page created by one of our friends.
https://www.facebook.com/DePisEnPisGirona/?fref=ts

How much does it cost to live in Girona?

Depends on your lifestyle, but I think with 600€/month you can have a good lifestyle, and if you want to travel, well, you should have some savings.

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

Hahah. Catalan is so different from Spanish, I think we were all surprised. Sometimes you find people who are not wiling to switch to Spanish, but you can take a language course. Catalan course is for free, for Spanish / German? French you have to pay.

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

By plane. Bratislava - Girona cost me aroun 20€

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

Jarana, Blow, Lux, Muster, Taverna Catala, Biobo... lots of places :)

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

There is a burger place in the centre, it looks amazing from the inside. I cant remember the name however. But everybody is eating in Konig

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The cathedral, then the mountain, all the city centre :) the coast and the hills

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

If you want to improve you Spanish here, you will not. People speak mainly catalan. If you want to visit gym, the cheapest and the best is Punt Groc. Frozen yoghurt is awesome, and faculty of tourism in Barri Vell is the best looking faculty ever. And I was told they have good teaching methods. I like Girona a lot for its sunny weather and beautiful architecture. However, if you are looking for big cities, it may not be for you.