Erasmus Experience in Izmir, Turkey by Natalia

Why did you choose to go to Izmir, Türkiye?

It was different from all the other countries, so I decided to give it a try. And I have to say, it was a very good decision!

Source

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

I get 240 Euros per month, but it depends on the country you are from, some get more, some get less, but it's always around 200 Euros. Prices are acceptable, even for travelling, so I think it's quite enough. And I got scholarship for 4 and a half months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Izmir?

I think very similar to if I can say it like this "European". Everybody is really nice, I was surprised with the friendliness of the students in here.

Source

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

I would definitely recommend the city, it's got a very good location, there is so much to see here and the university - I think it depends which university you attend, there are more of them in here.

What is the food like?

Good, sometimes very strange combinations, but basically OK.

Source

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Izmir?

First two weeks I was in dormitory - please never do that! It´s different system in here, so if you don't want to be limited in terms of what time do you come back to dormitory, rather find an apartment. It's quite easy here, i found mine in 4 days and moved immediately. There are lot of facebook pages, where you can find students offering their room or apartment.

How much does it cost to live in Izmir?

I pay 400TL, which is around 130 Euros per month, everything included, so It's OK.

Source

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

In our university there is Turkish language course, but I don't attend, as I came in summer semester and it was part II, so I thought I won´t have the basics. But if you are a lot with Turkish students, you will definitely get some basic conversational skill.

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

I am from Slovakia, so I went by direct flight Vienna-Izmir by SunExpress, the price was 86 Euros, so It was the cheapest way.

Source

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

Wherever you want to, but be careful, after 12pm metro is not in charge.

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

School canteen. No, there are a lot of options depends on what do you prefer, but there are some good fish restaurants.

Source

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Well, Konak Square, seaside definitely and places like Ephesus, Pamukkale, Kapadokya, Cesme beach, Greek Chios island, there are a lot of bazaars - a lot of places, really, come and see for yourself.

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

Don´t bring a lot of clothes with you, it's quite cheap here. And come in summer!