Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Nina

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

Because of the politics, sincerely. I study journalism, Im trying to get the experience of the Middle East, especially since the refugee crises ...

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

For five months, like 2000 euros. Its enough, of course, food and everyday stuff are cheap, taxes and rents expensive.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

Great, relaxed, more than in Ljubljana.

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

I recommend the city, because its a mixture of two cultures. Islam and Western secularized one.

What is the food like?

Oh, food is great, you could eat all the time, everywhere.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

It didnt take me a lot of time, but you have to be prepared to give at least 250 euros per month for solid one.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

As I said before, everyday life is cheap, taxes are heavy.

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

Turkish language is not hard to learn if I compare it to English, French, German .. But English helps you here only with younger generation and this also you should not take for granted. Language courses, but not Turkish this year. Thats a bad part, because I only know some basic Turkish words.

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

With Istanbul card for students.20 liras per week if you move every day somewhere...

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

Im not really party animal, but places at Sishane and Taksim are.of course always great. Through the week, weekends, always.

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

I dont remember the names, but you can contact me and I will send you locations. The last one I ve been, its at Taksim, not the main street, which serves brunches from 7 till 4 in the afternoon. Turkish breakfast

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Hmm, not in touristic things .. but there are many ofcourse.

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

Live with Turkish and Arabic students. There are so many, if you will look for the accomodation with other Erasmus students, you will miss great part of getting the feeling to live here.