Erasmus Experience in Huelva, Spain by Ada

Why did you choose to go to Huelva, Spain?

I wanted to learn Spanish. I also knew that I would be able to go to the beach and enjoy the perfect summer weather throughout the whole semester! My Erasmus loan was also less than expected - so the cheap living in Andalucia is a reason!

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

I am in Huelva for 5 months - received around 400 euros per month, which is not enough - I need 220 for accommodation, some more money for food, sports and etc. But if you save money you are able to go traveling - either by renting a car (cheap option! ) or joining some of the ESN (Erasmus Student Network) trips.

What is the student lifestyle like in Huelva?

It is great, because Universidad de Huelva counts a lot of international presence so they do everything possible to bring more students from around the world to Huelva! Which makes it easy to meet hundreds of different people and cultures... The guys from ESN, student organization, are also great - they answer all questions you would have and they offer great tips and advices to make your stay even more enjoyable.

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

Of course! It is a great place to live and study at! The university gives you the opportunity to choose a variety of disciplines you would like to apply for and they don't put you under pressure to study a lot or be punctual with projects, etc.

The city is perfect - Huelva itself is not the funniest place, but for sure it's nice and it's so close to every city worth visiting in Andalucia province. You can enjoy doing sports, riding a bike or taking long walks with friends, food is cheap and the weather is great!

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What is the food like?

I don't enjoy Spanish cuisine as much as other people, but if you like it - there are great places to eat for good prices. I love going to fish restaurants, because Huelva is a port city and they have a lot of fish kinds - fresh and for no price!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Huelva?

No. I was really lucky to contact one student agency for accommodation - Housing Huelva on Facebook and the moment I got here they helped me find a flat and roommates without taking any commission. A lot of agencies and people will make "tours" around the city and show you a lot of nice places you could rent!

How much does it cost to live in Huelva?

For a month you will need at least 500, in order to be able to pay accommodation, food, going out and traveling.

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

The language is pretty easy - I got one level higher in two months. But you have to avoid speaking English and go out with the natives. Most people say the Andalucian dialect is hard to understand, but I don't think it's something impossible.

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

I got on a plane to Madrid and took a bus to Huelva. For my country that is the easiest way, but it depends with other countries.

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

I don't go "partying" so much, but there are some nice "student" bars like Lone Star or Mombasa, or you can just hang out and drink beer at some park - they have 3 really big ones here :)

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

In Huelva it is just the port and two parks, but the surrounding cities and parks are great - Sevilla, Doñana National Park, Gibraltar, Granada, Cordoba, Cadiz, Aracena, Marismas Del Odiel, beaches like Punta Umbria, Mazagon and of course some of nearby Portugal - just two hours away! ESN and some other agencies will offer cheap trips to Ibiza, Morrocco, etc.

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

Take your summer clothes, a smile and a positive attitude and you will feel in Andalusia like it's your home in no time :)