Erasmus Experience in Helsinki, Finland by Viliyana

Why did you choose to go to Helsinki, Finland?

Choosing Finland for my Erasmus destination was a dream come true. I had a very strong interest in the country since early childhood and I always knew that one day I have to visit it. Erasmus was not just an exchange program - it makes your wishes come true.

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

My scholarship was for 5 months and I had the amount of 480eu per month. However, the Erasmus procedure back then was that they keep 20% of your scholarship and give them back to you when you return to the home country. I do not think that the practice is still the same. In normal circumstances I would have around 700eu per month.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Helsinki?

The student's lifestyle in Helsinki is quite exciting. There are many art places and rock pubs(for rock and metal fans). Finland is also known for its amazing nature, so there is plenty of beauty all around!

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

Helsinki is one of the best cities for living in my opinion. It is neither too small nor too big - just perfect. There are enough people, but never gets overcrowded. The transportation is perfect so you can easily get from one point to another. As far as University of Helsinki is concerned, it is a great place for studying - I totally loved the library, I could live there!

What is the food like?

The fish and the cinnamon are really common for Finnish cuisine. I loved in particular the fish soup and the korvapuusti (or cinnamon rolls). There is something quite interesting about the Nordic cuisine that I never tried and still regret it - blood pancakes.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Helsinki?

My accommodation was 400eu monthly, so it was a substantial amount from my grant.

How much does it cost to live in Helsinki?

It really depends on the type of person everyone is - some can save money, some spend too much. However, to live well in Helsinki you should have maybe like 3350/400eu monthly.

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

Courses are available at the university, yes. The language is hard to learn, but if the person is devoted enough and really likes the culture it will be much easier.

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

I am born and raised in Sofia, Bulgaria. The cheapest and fastest way is by plane - the ticket costs around 220EU.

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

I like recommending unusual place so definitely - Roska and Dont tell mama!

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

I will stick again to rather unusual suggestions so it is really amazing if you go to the port where the boat to Suomenlinna is running, during the winter they sell food there which is just amazing! Apart from that there are really nice Mexican restaurant as well.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I would recommend Turku for sure, plus Tampere, Oulu and Jyvaskyla.

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

I would advice them to save some additional money and travel to the Baltic countries, St. Petersburg, Sweden and especially Lapland. What is more, take a bunch of warm clothes with you - as one Finnish proverb tends to say: "there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing. " If you are dressed properly you would easily enjoy the freezing weather. I do not know a person who hasn't fall in love with Finland, so read more about their culture and traditions and enjoy every moment of your stay! If you have the opportunity you should definitely sigh for the Finnish language course.