Erasmus Experience in Granada, Spain, by Camille

Why did you choose to go to Granada, Spain?

I've always loved Spanish, so it was an opportunity for me to perfect the language. I looked at the universities offered by the exchange program. The University of Granada had good reviews, and I was smitten with the city. And also a bit of sun never hurt anybody!

How long is your stay? How much financial aid did you receive?

From September to June (the time you'll need to really prosper and to feel at home I think! ).

I receive 250€ per month for 10 months.

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How is the student life in Granada?

Incredible! It's a superb and dynamic city, there are many students from all over the world. There are tons of great places to have a night out, stroll through, relax in, stop for a drink with friends, and study by the river side... there's really something for everyone!

Would you recommend the city and the university of Granada to other students?

Without a doubt, YES! The city is sublime, and so pleasant to live in. The centre is very lively, especially after 5 pm, and has magnificent architecture. The ancient heart of the city, the Albaycin, a little piece of paradise, and passing through the lookout of San Nicolas, with a stunning view of the Alhambra. Go get lost in Sacromonte where you can still feel the Gypsy presence in the streets, and come across an incredible Flamenco show, eat churros con chocolate, before going to have a delicious cerveza with friends, what do you think about that?

How is the food in this country

Hearty, not expensive but a bit fattening. The Tapas bars are great, because for 3-4€ you can have a glass of wine and a good burger, then a tasty paella or chipirones, how can you resist that... but after a few weeks, we turned to the fruterias and the "healthier" restaurants!

Did you have any difficulties in finding accommodation in Granada?

The only little snag was that I was still in France while I was searching, so it became more difficult as you can't really tell what it's actually like with photos and videos, nor the location of the flat, the roommates, the landlords... So if you can wait to rent until you're there, that would be ideal and above all so you can choose a good neighbourhood! But if not, there are plenty of ads on social media, websites and here in the streets or in the uni, so there shouldn't be too many difficulties (especially when you're coming from Paris! )

What is the cost of living in Granada?

Hard to say. It all depends on the people... but in general not any more expensive than France, even less for the daily necessities. But you have to include the trips and outings... which can make it a bit more expensive, even though it's still reasonable!

How is learning the language? Did you go to language courses organized by the University?

At the beginning, honestly, if you had it like me, learning one year in high school, its a horror! But don't panic, its comes quickly! It's just that the Andalusian accent is nothing like the Spanish we learn in school... It's more of a 'eat your words' and don't pronounce the S kind of style... so at the beginning it can seem hard, but eventually you get used to it and when you see the first improvements, you'll feel more at home!

I took courses at the Cervantes Institute, it was cheaper and the prof was AWESOME!

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What is the cheapest way to get to Granada from your city?

From Paris, the best and most direct way is the flight from Paris to Malaga and from Malaga take the bus that takes you directly to Granada (2 hours).

Which places do you recommend for going out in Granada?

It all depends on what you're looking for, but if you like reagaeton, you're covered: El camborio, Le Mae West, Vogue, Magic...

For those of you more into Jazz, reggae, rock: the best club for me was Booga Club!

For a quieter night out in the bars there's lots to do in the Centre (Bohemian Cafe) or on the Calle Elvira!

And to eat in Granada? What are your favourite places?

There are so many places to eat... but I'd say the Bodega de Antonio (cheap paella), Viva Maria (typical Italian, the owner is adorable), MIMIMI (to have a hot chocolate), el Laurel (for the vegetarians), Gran Cafe Bib Rambla (the best churros in Granada! )....

And what cultural visits do you recommend?

If there's one thing to see it's the Alhambra without a doubt! But there are plenty of cool smaller places too: getting lost in the streets of the Albaycin, the Casa arabes (paseo de los Tristes), Carmen de la Victoria, Carmen de los Martires, plaza de toros....

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Any recommendations for future students in Granada?

Come without any hesitation, and enjoy, you will not regret it!