Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Joanna

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

Weather.

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

4 months. 400 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

Many things to do.

Source

Would you recommend the city and the university in Istanbul to other students?

City is amazing. Koc University is very far away from the centre so that either you cannot go parties or you need to commute every morning to university, which is extremely tiring.

What is the food like?

Food is very tasty, a lot of things to try, however, selection of meat (not to mention pork meat) is very poor.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

Nope, there are many groups on Facebook with flat ads.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

Depending on lifestyle. It is possible to fit in 1000 - 1100 Turkish liras per month if you don't travel and live on a tight budget.

Is the language easy to get a grip on? Are there language courses available at the University?

There is Turkish course at university. It is possible to communicate in Turkish knowing only few words as people are very friendly. At bazaars everybody speaks English, however, office workers are not able to speak foreign languages. Especially offices which deal with foreigners! You need to find native speaker who will help you or a lot of patience.

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

Plane. For example, cheap WizzAir flights through Budapest or Pegasus flights from Ukraine.

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

Taksim, Beşiktaş, Ortaköy, Kadıköy areas.

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

Canteen at university is pretty cool, cheap, tasty and serve local food. Full meal with dessert cost 8 liras with student ID.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Many museums, historical places or even walking around old neighbourhoods is cool.

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

Patience, patience, patience.