Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Okay

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

It has been a random choice.

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

1 semester, but if you want extend your staying the second rate is paid out (800 x 2 euro).

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

It generally varies from "all-paid-by-the-rich-family" lifestyle for underperformed students till hard working first year students who have best grades, their own projects and pay school by themselves.

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

Yes, of course.

What is the food like?

Turkish food excludes the notion about healthy and clean eating... Everything is fried, oily and spicy despite the fact that there are all the possible fresh fruits and vegetables for reasonable prices.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

It is not so easy and flat owners set incredible prices for rooms, sometimes higher then in Europe. Dorms are enormously expensive.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

600 for room, 600 for living, in lira.

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

Yes, there are. Language makes itself clear after a couple of moths of observation.

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

By plane, I'm supposing.

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

Peyote, Minimüziköl, Kiki.

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

No, only cooking at home.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Islands.

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

Get rid of your national and cultural European pride and prejudice and come here as a humble guest.