Elena's Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey

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Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

I wanted a change of scenery, to experience a new culture and meet new people. I also wanted to go to a country that wasn't too expensive.

In terms of the language, the university is in English, but you can also sign up to the Turkish academy, I think it’s an interesting language.

How long was your grant for? How much money did you receive?

If you go for the whole year the grant lasts 9 or 10 months. The money I received is the same as all the other Erasmus grants.

How is the student life in Istanbul?

Very good, you hang out with other Erasmus students, the majority of which were German in my case, and with the Turkish too.

Would you recommend Istanbul as a city and University to other students?

Yes, it’s a beautiful city, really big, the only bad thing is that the university is really far but you soon get used to the fact that everything is far away. The climate is excellent and the people are very similar to the Spanish.

How is the food?

The traditional food is the kebab and a few other tasty things. The only bad thing is they don’t eat pig meat and alcohol is relatively expensive in terms of the cost of living.

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Was it difficult to find accommodation in Istanbul?

No, I went without having arranged anything and I found a flat within a week. You have to have a good look around though because they may offer you some expensive, horrible places, so be patient. Above all, a flat is better than student halls and the centre is where the life and soul of the place is.

What is the cost of living in Istanbul?

Around €300-400 a month, plus rent.

How did you get on with the language? Did you attend a course at the University?

Very well, the people you meet on the street don’t speak much English so we communicated using gestures. You can also boast about knowing a bit of Turkish.

What’s the most cost-effective way to get to Istanbul from your home town?

By plane is the most convenient.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Istanbul?

Get yourself an ESN and you’ll be all set.

What about eating out in Istanbul? Can you tell us your favourite places?

The typical food, “gani gani” and a lot of street food.

What is there in terms of cultural places to visit?

The Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sofia, the Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, the Besiktas district, the Asian side of the city, Istiklal Avenue, Taksim Square and loads more.

Any advice for future students in Istanbul?

You won’t regret it, at the beginning I wasn't sure about going but now I have no regrets, I'm in love with the city.