Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Mariana

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

I was looking for something different. I wanted to experience something else than the traditional Erasmus experience. Istanbul is completely different from the rest of Europe and it is a chance to get out of the comfort zone and grow in every sense.

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

I did Erasmus during one semester and I received 860€, 90% of which was given in the beginning and the remaining in the end, after filling the report. It was not enough for the life in Istanbul, not even for the rent. The notion that Istanbul is a cheap city is not correct, especially if you want to enjoy your stay!

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

There are a lot of other Erasmus students from all over Europe, you can easily team up and explore. People are very open and eager to get to know you, so you can always find someone to show you around. There are a lot of bars and clubs where you can have a great time, with happy hours. As a student you get a discount for the museums and for the travel card, allowing you some savings.

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

I did not go to the University of Istanbul, so I do not know about that. Istanbul is truly amazing, so lively! It is like there is always some celebration going on. You have a lot of beautiful places to visit, some parks to take a walk and amazing terraces from cafes and restaurants with a breathtaking view. The Turkish culture is strongly present everywhere and you can take advantage from it and enjoy its perks.

What is the food like?

First of all, it is spicy and seasoned. You find kebabs everywhere, which are good at anytime. If you feel hungry there is always food nearby. Go near the Bosphorus and you can enjoy a fish sandwich, kebabs and koftes (Turkish burger) with a relaxing view. In the street people sell Simit (Turkish bagel), roasted chestnuts and corn. Enjoy some refreshing freshly squeezed pomegranate or orange juice in the hot days, or a warming Turkish tea in the cold days. Don't be afraid to try the mussels with rice that are sold in the street, they taste amazing (but be smart in the hot days and choose wisely). Most places deliver home! And remember that if something is sweet, it is REALLY sweet. You don't find pork in the supermarket, only in special butchers and it is expensive.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

No it was fairly easy, I found it before arriving there through the Internet (Craigslist). There is a lot of offer.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

It is difficult to quantify. For the monthly rent of a double room very close to Taksim, the centre, I paid 1000 TL (Turkish Liras). Eating outside is cheap, but in the supermarket some stuff was more expensive than in Portugal. If you go to a bar be prepared to spend at least 8 TL in a drink, and more if it is in a club.

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

The language is very difficult! However, you should really know how to say basic stuff to go shopping, as bargaining is frequent. In some places people cannot speak one word of English, so if you have the chance to learn the language do not waste it!

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

Plane.

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

Eski Beyrut, definitely! It is a small bar with very friendly people and the music is great: it goes from ethnic world music, to the party classics, to the recent pop hits.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Just keep your eyes open, Istanbul is bursting with culture! You can see beautiful and interesting stuff everywhere!