Erasmus Experience in Huelva, Spain by Ashling

Why did you choose to go to Huelva, Spain?

I choose Huelva because it was a Spanish speaking part. I heard it was the cheapest place in Spain and the weather isn't too bad either. I had the decision to go to Madrid either, but Huelva was the small town and it seemed more Erasmus friendly. Now I know it is.

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

I got 1400 euros on arriving and it didn't last very long with flights and rent and deposits, etc. I receive 1000 every 3 or 4 months and it is not enough to live on as it barely pays for rent.

What is the student lifestyle like in Huelva?

It's very friendly, people in the ESN Huelva are very good to Erasmus and do organize many trips, but you have to have the money to spare.

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

Yes, the atmosphere is very friendly. Besides it's close to the beach (just winter months can be a bit boring at times) so I would recommend it :)

What is the food like?

Food is good. There are many tapas bars and pizzerias and they are very cheap.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Huelva?

No, I wrote on the Facebook page of Erasmus Huelva 2013/14 and organized it from there.

How much does it cost to live in Huelva?

My rent is 150 euros a month and 60 bills every 2-3 months depending. The city buses cost €1. 10 and buses to other towns and the beach costs €1. 50. You can buy dinners for less than €5. 00 in shops as there are many Mercadonas and Dias etc.

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

Not exactly.. It's ok as there are introductory classes to help you, but with Andalusian Spanish it can be hard to understand. Happily all Erasmus students speak English.

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

I get the flight from Dublin to Faro and get the bus to Huelva

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

Mombasa and Ego :)

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

100 mondatitos and Dominos. It costs €6. 20 for 3 people to get pizza and drinks, so you won't be hungry!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The cathedral, bull fighting arena, the viewpoint.

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

I advise living in the city center. Living near El Carmen it can be annoying to get taxis home most nights.