Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Safaa

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

I wanted to go somewhere far, but still close if it makes sense. I am from Denmark, so Turkey is a whole new experience, but still close anyway (the flight trip is only two hours, and there are alot of similarities). Furthermore, I am really interested in the Turkish culture and everything that the country has to offer.

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

The scholarship is for six months. I received around 6000 Danish kroner (500 Euro).

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

It reminds a lot of the Danish student lifestyle - during the week days you study and prepare for whatever you have to. Sometimes you'll have a tea or see a musical shows. However, during the weekends - actually already from Thursdays the fun starts: During the daytime you go on small trips and during the evening you go to parties in the different parts of Istanbul or to some other events if you are not interested in partying.

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

Defiantly! Istanbul is a wonderful free city where you can be whoever you want to be. There are so many people and events, that you can find whatever you are seeking.

What is the food like?

The food is tasty and different from what i am used to. However, Turkish food is really salty and oily which you can grow tired of in the long run.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

No it did not cost me anything. I found my accommodation on craiglist.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

It costs around 5000 Danish kroner each month - 669 Euro .

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

Yes the language is pretty easy to learn- especially that which will help you get by. My university (KOC) offered some courses in basic survival Turkish during the introduction week. Furthermore, you can take for credit or not-for credit turkish courses for beginner, normal and advance level. This is the case for many universities in Istanbul. 

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

The most easiest will be the metro which will get you to all areas in Istanbul. But there are plenty of different transportation means - bus, minibus, metro-bus, tram.

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

It depends on what you are seeking. If you want to go clubbing, then I would recommend Taksim. However, if you want to go to caffeterias and bars then Kadikoy (Asian side). I myself really loved Kadikoy and the Asian side in general when going out with friends. 

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

I like Mado and Big Chef, there can be found in each district.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There many. The blue mosque, Sophia Hargia and many other mosques as well - they are so beautiful all of them. Then there is Balad - a small historical city which i fell totally in love with. There are plenty of cultural places to vist in Turkey. I just can't remember what they are all called.

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

Nothing else but to really make sure to see all the fine places, because since the city is huge people tend to just stick with what they already know out of laziness or something else. But really, everyone should explore all aspects of the city, you would be surprised to see all that it contains.

An advice i would give females is to make sure to stand close to women in the metro bus or any other crowded places. Its always crowded in Istanbul, and a lot of creepy men takes advantage of this by pressing them really close to you. So to avoid this uncomfortable experience, make sure to always stand with the females - they would also be glad to have  you to near them.