Glasgow - Scotland's Party Capital

What is it like to live in Glasgow? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Glasgow is traditionally known for its pub scene and humid weather - both things you will see a lot of if you move to this city. The great thing is that it's a town, small enough to get to most places ( eg clubs, universities, supermarkets, shopping streets) within 30 minutes (unless you live way out of the city center) and on the other hand, it's big enough that it's always busy and there is always things to do. There's a pub almost on every corner, with affordable drinks and food. Clubs are free to get into most days if you get in before 12, BUT they close at 3 (or 4 on holidays). As for the weather - be warned, it can change within a few minutes and usually features strong winds and a sudden rain shower that may pass in the next 10 minutes. Make sure to not use umbrellas.

What is the student lifestyle like in Glasgow?

It's a great place for students - most clubs and bars offer student discount, there's a wide variety of nightlife, something for literally every taste, and loads and loads o international students. The universities are very welcoming, and the campuses always have something happening - you can join literally every kind of society and meet new ppl, no matter if you're into sports, or drama, or surfing.

How much does it cost to live in Glasgow?

I would say Glasgow is very affordable compared to Edinburgh and London (note that this coming from someone used to living in Austria). As I said before, you can get in for free into most clubs if you get in on time, rent is expensive-ish but not too bad if you avoid the ridiculously overpriced student halls, supermarkets are alright - the only thing that's genuinely expensive is traveling around the UK, specifically by train. Make sure to check ryanair before booking any trains. I spent on average 350 pounds for rent and 200 for other food and the like - so 750 pounds per month.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Glasgow? Is there any advice you can give?

YES, VERY DIFFICULT. Finding a good flat is an art and you have to be lucky. I would recommend to book student halls if you're going for Erasmus and not to go there expecting to find something in September - getting a private flat or room is super complicated since you need a special license if you live with more than 1 other person you're not related to and you need a UK guarantor for your rent payments, or pay it 6 months in advance. Bottom line, it's hard and land lords aren't nice to international students here. If you can, go for the university's own halls.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Depends largely on what you like - if it's fresh vegetables, fruit or bread, your life is gonna suck. Supermarkets are full with chilled, ready-made food, and the food is very meaty. Some of their traditional dishes are potatoes (any way basically), haggis (a kind of minced meat), and fried mars bars (try it). On the pro side, there's an abundance of Starbucks and Starbucks-look-alikes and they're cheaper than what I'm used to.

Is it good to eat out in Glasgow? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, there are plenty of places to eat out, especially in Merchant city. There's anything from Italian, to Indian, to Greek to Brazilian. My favorites are Koolba and Cafe Cossachok.

What advice would you give future students heading to Glasgow?

- Take good rain clothes with you. DONT use umbrellas, they won't survive.
- Make sure to visit your GP before you go and bring any meds you might need with you, the health system is extremely bad here.
- Mentally prepare that you'll be struggling to understand the Scottish accent in the beginning - but you'll get used to it soon enough.