Erasmus Experience in Izmir, Turkey by Dimi

Why did you choose to go to Izmir, Turkey?

I choose it because of different culture that seemd very interesting.

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

My scholarship lasted one year. I received 260 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Izmir?

Open minded, friendlt and willing to help.

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

In my opinion Turkey is the best choice for Erasmus and Izmir is the best student city in Turkey.

What is the food like?

Turkish cousine is delicious. Cig Kofte, Kumru, Sucuk, Manti, Mevlana Etliekmek, Adana Kebab - they're just some of my favorite food.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Izmir?

No.

How much does it cost to live in Izmir?

It depends on lifestyle but I think 500-600 TRY is enough for basic needs.

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

Universities provide language courses and language is easy to get to grips with because turkish pepole even if can speak english they force you to speak turkish. It is good to learn some basic vocabulary before coming.

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

From Poland In summer time is good to check charters flight. Generally the most economical is to go to Lviv and fly to Istanbul or Izmir with Pegasus.

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

There is a lot of nice places to go on a night out. When I was Erasmus we were going to clubs as Boombox, Retro Garden, Knock Down in Alsancak. Dangeon, Ooze Venue in Kucukpark. But as far as I know some of them doesnt exist anymore. Also Kucukpark is a good place to go on a night out. At Lovestreet yo ucan find places to smoke Nargile and drink a cay. Another place that I recommend - Kordon in Alsancak. It's good to sit on the grass and drink some beers in there.

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

Again there is a lot of good places. My favorite is the restaurant named Konyali in Bornova district. Secondly Batalbey where you can find the best Cig Kofte. The bakery in the corner in Kucuk park - Its good for breakfast. And much much more.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Konak with Clock Tower.
Asansor with nice view on Izmir Bay.
Kemeralti bazar.
Kulturpark.
Ephesus.

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Izmir?

Do not save your money. Spend all for travelling, partying, eating. Dont stay at home. Go out as much as you have opportunity. Meet with people. Explore.

The most important thing that I can recommend is to travell around Turkey becuase its beautiful country. People are very hospitable. I did hitchhiking trip through the Turkey and it was the best experience of my life as my whole Erasmus time in Izmir.