Erasmus Experience in Izmir, Turkey by Louisa

Why did you choose to go to Izmir, Turkey?

So many Turkish people are living in Germany and I wanted to understand their culture and language better. I love Turkish cuisine, the weather was perfect for a summer semester, and I heard very positive things about their hospitality.

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

The scholarship is 5 months long and I roughly receive 300 € a month, which was excactly the cost of the rent.

What is the student lifestyle like in Izmir?

There are lots of cool cafés and bars to hang out at for hours and meet everyone, the clubs in the city centre offer all sorts of music tastes, ESN (Erasmus Student Network) clubs organize amazing weekend trips, the bar district is pretty decent, and the food is super cheap.

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

Yes, definitely!

What is the food like?

Cheap, there's not a great variety of choices but it's certainly very tasty, especially the Turkish breakfast.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Izmir?

No.

How much does it cost to live in Izmir?

• 300 € for rent (but other flats were half the price).
• 250 € for food (but only because I ate out all three meals of the day).
• 200 € for shopping and trips.
• 50 € for transportation (mostly taxis after partying).

All expenses are distribuited monthly.

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

There are good courses available and people love to interact with your little bits of Turkish! It is easy to learn.

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

By plane.

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

• Konak Seaside Resort
• Borsa Club

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

Any restaurant that serves Turkish breakfast and any waffle shop.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

• The ocean
• Clock Tower
• Kadifekale

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

Don't panic about the residence permit, after that you will have the greatest of times there!

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