Erasmus Experience in Halmstad, Sweden by Leigh

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Why did you choose to go to Halmstad, Sweden?

Because of the university and the course they provided.

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

I don't receive a scholarship.

What is the student lifestyle like in Halmstad?

There are many students in Halmstad there for there is always new opportunities to meet new people. The city center has several pubs and bars to eat and drink and that is a great way to interact with other students. There are also many events at the university which are usually just for students and they tend to be cheaper than outside the university environment.

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

If they are looking for a small, calm city and university, then yes. If they are looking to live in a busy city with plenty of entertainment, shops, bars and restaurants then no. Sweden is quite a relaxed and peaceful country full of greenery and no city stress, so if this is not for you then Halmstad might not be your best choice.

What is the food like?

The traditional food here in sweden is the meatballs (köttbullar) and mashed potatoes. Swedes love to add sauses to their food therefore they have many combination of flavours and types. The meatballs with mashed potatoes usually go with a brown-creamy sause as does many of the other dishes here.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Halmstad?

Not really, especially because I managed it through the student union at the unversity. However if I had to look for it on my own then I think I would have found that difficult.

How much does it cost to live in Halmstad?

Student rent is relatively cheap however food, cloths and other items may be expensive at times. Other activities such as the cinema, bowling or go-karting may also seem a little pricy.

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

You can more or less make out what the swedish words are as they are sometimes similar to english but I find it hard to understand and read. There are courses at the university but they have limited spaces so if you want a spot you have to sign up in advance.

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

The main and most used method of transport in Halmstad: cycling. The first thing you need to do when you arrive at Halmstad is to buy a second-hand bike.

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

There are several bars round the center: Harry's, O'learys, Liams to have few expensive beers and then you have Jame's rock bar and Leons nightclub to end the night, both open untill 3am.

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

Norre Port has traditional Swedish dishes at a reasonable price. There is also a Greek restaurant and a few indian restaurants which look good.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There is a walk along the river where you can see different statues and art monuments, including a piece based on picasso's work.

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

Get ready to cycle everywhere and bring with you (or get ready to buy) winter cloths as I highly recommend that you book a trip to Lapland, and there is a lot of snow and really cold temperatures. If you need to buy clothes I recommend you travel to Ullared or Helsingborg as these are two of the biggest shopping malls in Sweden.

Also, all swedish people speak english so don't worry about not knowing swedish! They are also extremely lovely people and they are always very helpeful whenever they can. All in all living in Sweden has been and is still a great experience worth living.

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