Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Petra

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

because its pretty diverse culture, comparing to any other european countries... the most east ;) and the only state with Islamic roots amond the Erasmus target cities.

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

6 months
400 EUR/month

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

I would say a little bit easier in term of requirements and activity (or maybe its only because i was an erasmus student, handled with different expectations... )
and of course it depends on the university and faculty... I heard Law is very tough and hard and high quality education.

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

More english speaking help ;) more comminucation and possibilites of participation in additional courses for international students.
The city is awesome, absolutely friendly people all around however for instance its not sustainable at all... some european standards could be intergrated more. (recycling... etc...)

What is the food like?

AMAZING. of course u have to get rid off the cliches and forget about Döner and Kebab but go for the real turkish food, Breakfast, soups, Perde Pilavi, Cigara Böregi, su Böregi, Adana Kebab, Baklava from Gaziantep... etc...

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

nope. since you are in the circulation and network of international sudents, its pretty easy to find a flat share... university groups can help you.. facebook.. etc... however directly arranging 1 room for yourself with turkish landlord might be a bit more difficult. I recommend to move together with other foreigners...

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

Istanbul is not as cheap as going further to East, but still lower prices in comparison to Western Europe of course. Food is cheap, Clothing is cheap (except the usual world brands) transportation is ok.. normal.. and going out.. clubs: pretty expensive... alcohol.. expensive!!

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

yes, usually there are turkish language courses. and its very easy to pick it up, due to the forcement that u gotta speak turkish in the shop, in the street, on the bus and basicly eveywhere if u wanna get along ;)

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

from Berlin there is a direct flight. easiest.

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

European side: Babylon, Peyote, Kasette, Machine, Minimüzik hole, Beat Club, Flavio
Asian side: there used the be the so called "bar street".. i guess not anymore :((

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

almost everywhere.. but in Kadiköy: at around the fish market.
and in these districts: Moda, Beyoglu, Galata...

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Architecture!! The palast of the former sultans... all the Cami's and the gardens.. and Maiden'st tower... and etc... lot to see... also out of Istanbul+

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

accept the help from turkish people, they really do mean it. they are extremely helpful and friendly. though.. try to get used to bargaining, otherwise u will pay always more...

travel as much as you can also, out of Istanbul! this country is amazing!

learn turkish! very funny language and people do really appreciate it and will love you when you speak a little... ;)

enjoy, learn, see, speak, smile, party, study! ;)