Erasmus Experience in Izmir, Turkey by Maria João

Why did you choose to go to Izmir, Turkey?

Great revommendations from a friend that had done erasmus there the year before

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

I stayed there only 4months. I don't exactly remember how much I received (it wqs in 2009), but maybe around 800-900euros, total

What is the student lifestyle like in Izmir?

Great nightlife, cheap in general, great erasmus group and a really good esn team

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

Yes :) a big yes

What is the food like?

Really good and cheap. Izmir being just by the shore has a lot of fish plates. Deserts are to die for

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Izmir?

I stayed in the students residence. It was cheap at the time. It had all the facilities needed.

How much does it cost to live in Izmir?

It was cheaper than western Europe. I don't know if changed a lot in the past 4 years

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

The basics (for survival) ate easy to learn. In the university people talked to is in english, but there are a lot of turks (even in the university) that don't speak much in english.. sometimes can be a problem

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

Flight

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

Kucuk park! Or downtown

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Kmeralti (wring spelling) is the bazar where you can spend many and many hours. Around Izmir there are many historical sites and beautiful towns and natural landscapes to visit. Also the seashore :)