Erasmus Experience in Granada, Spain by Christina

Why did you choose to go to Granada, Spain?

I always wanted to live in Spain and it was actually Granada who chose me. I had applied in many universities in Spain in order to start a new Erasmus agreement, since mine wasn't collaborating with the country at the time. Granada was the city that accepted my application and I'm glad it happened. The city and its people had me enchanted!

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

It depends on each school. My scholarship was 6 months long, but under certain circumstances (if for example you want to expand your stay) you can always arrange things with your university. Unfortunately, I can't remember the exact amount of money I received, but it was enough to cover the rent, bills and food. But remember, it depends on each university.

What is the student lifestyle like in Granada?

It's perfect! The city is filled with things to do, it's not too big, yet not too small and Albayzin, the old part of the city, is just a dream place! Plus, there are a lot of organizations for foreign students and they organize trips, parties and all kinds of events every week! It's fantastic, you are going to love it!

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

Without second thoughs! As every person who has been there would say, "quien no ha visto Graná, no ha visto ná! "

What is the food like?

I'll just prepare you to get fat! You go out for a drink, they serve you two plates of food! Hahahha!

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Granada?

No! Having had an experience in London too, finding a place in Granada was way too easy! Outside the University you can always find like a billion of adverts from people renting rooms or asking for roommates. Don't worry, you will definitely find something. I do recommend you, though, to go to the city a bit earlier, so that you won't have to worry about arranging your accommodation at the same time you will have to make your papers at the Uni.

How much does it cost to live in Granada?

I'd say approximately 500 euros per month. I didn't spend a lot, but the monthly house expenses are around the price of 350 euros, and count 150 more if you choose a more expensive place or if you go out A LOT. AND, there's the travelling thing, which you won't be able to resist!

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

Yes, there are. Every week they arrange language exchange meetings in order for the new students to learn Spanish and for the Spanish students to learn other languages. Personally, I find Spanish quite easy to get, especially if you know French or Italian.

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

Plane. Definitely.

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

My favourite place was always Albayzin. There you can come across many of the known "flamenco cuevas" where you can watch some of the original flamenco shows and enjoy the culture of the people of Andalucia at its best! Of course, if you're a party person, there are always clubs around the city, like the Mae West or Granada 10. You will hear of them in your first week there!

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

Plaza Isabel La Católica! All the yummy places are to be found there, it's a square in the center of the city. Then, you can always walk like 30 metres north where you can find Plaza Nueva, where Albayzin begins. There, on the street of Los Reyes Católicos, you can also come across some very good restaurants.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

First of all, the castle of Alhambra! A magical place! Both the castle and the whole area surrounding it, it's like all of a sudden you find yourself in another place. Then, on the top of Albayzin, you can search for the Mirador de San Nicolas and if you want to climb up the hill, go to the Mirador de San Cristobal (if I remember correctly). Then, there is the park of Federico Garcia Lorca, where you can also visit his house, and the Museum of Science, which is really interesting!

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Granada?

To not be afraid, get there a few days earlier than planned, so that the accommodation stuff can be arranged as soon as possible, and then let the adventure begin! You will all just love it! I wish I could have stayed there forever!