Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Anja

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

Because of the big city experience and the mash up of cultures. Also I like the eastern cultures so I thought it would be a great mixture to be in touch with european and eastern culture at the same time

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

It was 4 months long, I haven''t received any money but I was getting erasmus scholarship, though it was not merely enough to cover all the expenses.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

It's interesting, there is mostly young population here in istanbul so there's lots to do.. many parties and activities.. universities are great..

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

Yes I would but maybe not all of them. I have visited some and have to say private ones are much better, and students are better taken care of.

What is the food like?

Food is specific, it is good but there are many things missing in turkish cuisine that europeans may be accustomed to, such as pork meat, different cheeses, sour cream and many other such things.. som of them are possible to find but at a insanely high price.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

It cost me time yes, and money finally for the rent, the accomodation is also greately overpriced..

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

Too much in my opinion. The standars are much higher as the rest of turkey so schollarships given for turkish average are not merely enough for istanbul lifestyle.. you should have major savings or income coming from other sources..

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

Language, well for me it's not such a problem anymore as I have learnt a lot already. There are courses at universities but I immagine it's quite frustrating for total begginers as many istanbullers do't speak english in stores.

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

There is just air traffic possible so in any case it is expensive.

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

Ali baba nargile in tophane, relax and talk with friends, bond over nargile :D
For clubs, Araf is good for dancing to latin music

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

Hmm.. Balik ekmek from Karakoy,
Levrek from restaurants on galata bridge, one specific is delicious that I do not recall the name of.
Happymoons in fenerbahce.
Cookshop in bebek.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Aya sofya, blue mosque, basically entire sultanahmet part, galata tower, dolmabahce

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

Bring alcohol and favourite foods from your countries because here it's too expensive.