Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Andrei

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

I've been to Turkey before my erasmus term and I had the best times of my life there. The landscape, culture, citylife and of course, the people are absolutely wonderful

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

9 months and about 2 more for internship and travelling.
i received about 700tl per month

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

As a student, all you have to do is chill out. There are a lot of problems but everyone is willing to help you.
When you get tired of chilling at a cay, Istanbul is big enough for you to find interesting activities

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

Yes, no doubt

What is the food like?

Superb, but if you like fancy stuff, it's not your style

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

Nothing other than time. You could hire a real-estate firm, but it's very expensive and also time consuming. Craigslist, flat sharing is your best bet

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

It depends on you. I found that 1000-1200tl per month were enough (including rent)

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

The language is not very hard, but if you will only stay around your erasmus peers, you will never learn it. Courses are available at most universities

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

Plane, it's quick, and not so expensive

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

The clubs near Taksim or in Kadikoy

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

Most restaurants are good, go wild and experiment yourself. I don't think you'll be disappointed

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

EVERYTHING! Once you've finished all the turistic locations, walk aimlessly in Fatih, Fener, Eyup, Yedikule, Kuzkuncuk, Camlica. Take the boat to Buyukada, go to the beaches in Bakirkoy and see the life of the rich in Bebek

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

-Get a Student Museum Kart before you go to Topkapi and Ayasofya
-Go see a football match
-Go to the opera
-Take the ferry every day
-Keep calm at the grand bazaar
-Eat Iskender Kebap once a week
-Go to Istanbul Modern Museum every Wednesday
-Move from your apartment and area every 2 months. Neighbourhoods are so different from one another so check them all out
-Attend events at SALT Culture Center
-Drink tea at Mimar Sinan Cafe near Suleymaniye
-Relax with the locals at Sahil Parki on Saturday
-Drink turkish coffee and turkish tea every day
-Travel all over Turkey
HAVE FUN !!!