Erasmus Experience in Huelva, Spain by Figi

Why did you choose to go to Huelva, Spain?

First of all I wanted to get some knowledge about the culture of Spain, especially in Andalusia. Secondly, Poland is a cold country, so Spain was a perfect change of climate. Hot days, chilly evenings and so on. What is more, Huelva has a perfect location. Near to the awesome beaches (Punta Umbria, Mazagón), Portugal, Sevilla, Cadiz...

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

My scholarship lasted 4, 5 months. My university gave me 400 euros per month, but it wasn't enough, because buses, food and drinks were quite expensive for me.

What is the student lifestyle like in Huelva?

Just amazing! Lots of bars, pubs, restaurants where you can spend your spare time with friends, eat delicious tapas, bocadillo and drink refreshing tinto de verano. I recommend Cervecería Bonilla, 100 Montaditos, Taverna, Mombasa, New York, La Casona, Ego, Buddha, 100 chupitos. You can have crazy parties in Huelva and get super memories!

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

For sure, Huelva is like a second home for me now... After this amazing time in Spain I would love to go back there.

What is the food like?

Tapas are great. Tortilla de patatas, ensaladilla de gambas, flamenquin, shrimps, pastas, paella and national meals - it's good to try all of them, just to learn Spanish cuisine.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Huelva?

No, I've found my flat in the ESN office, by talking with my future (at that time) flatmate.

How much does it cost to live in Huelva?

My flat, with the Internet, all of the bills and rent fee, cost me 140 euros per month.

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

Well, the Andalusian dialect was quite difficult for me at the beginning, especially that I'd been learning Spanish only one year. But after some time it's ok. At the university there are a lot of courses so you can improve your language.

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

Of course by a plane. It's more than 3 thousands of kilometers from my city in Poland. I've taken a plane from Warsaw to Lisbon, then 2 hours break and another flight from Lisbon to Sevilla. Then in Sevilla I took a bus to Huelva from Plaza de Armas.

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

La Casona, Mombasa, Ego, Madala, New York, 100 chupitos, Buddha, Cafe Saxo, Real Lion.

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

Cerveceria Bonilla, 100 montaditos, Taverna.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Parque Moret, Muelle del Tinto, Puerto, Casa Colon, La Rabida.

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

Have fun and take advantage of the time you have as much as you can, because time flies really fast in Huelva!