Erasmus Experience in Jaen, Spain by Nikola

Why did you choose to go to Jaen, Spain?

As I was studying in the north (Denmark) I wanted to experience something different. Southern people are much more different than the northern and there are many interesting customs. The weather is especially nice. Therefore I chose Spain on the first place. I didn't know much about Jaen before I came but it was one of the few universities in Spain which had a close connection with my University. Therefore I chose it without any initial expectations. It was well worth it though!

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

I received the Erasmus internship for 6 months. It was 250 EUR per month. I recieved 80% of the total sum in the beginning and 20% in the end. The money are enough to cover rent and food in general but you should have some extra money just to be sure (and to experience Erasmus at its best).

What is the student lifestyle like in Jaen?

I was surprised that the University in Jaen was so big. The city is full of young people most of them students in the university. There are parties, clubs and people every day of the week so you can make many new friends and have a fun time. The only time when the city is quiet is during the siesta, it is too hot in that time anyways.

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

Yes I would it is a great place.

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What is the food like?

The food is good. There are many shops which sell fresh fruits, vegetables and meat. There is also plenty of choice of cheese and wine. If you are good in cooking you can do great stuff. Otherwise the local restaurants and fast food shops are always available. You have to try tortilla, jamon, sangria, tinto de verano and paella for sure. I cannot recommend any spanish beer though... stick to the wine.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Jaen?

Well the easiest way to find accommodation is to search while you are in Jaen. There are plenty of apartaments available but I didn't succeed in finding anything good in the web. I stayed for a few days in a hostel (costs ~15 Euro per night) until I found something. But there is always choice of rooms under rent.

How much does it cost to live in Jaen?

Rent is around 150 Euro, the prices of food in the stores is relatively cheap - if you eat only at home maybe you can manage withing 100 Euro. Clubs are also cheap - usually no entrance fee and the beer and wine aren't that expensive. Depending from your lifestyle the living costs can vary from 300 to 500 euro.

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

There are free Spanish courses in the University for any level which is really nice. Most of the people there don't speak much English so having some knowledge of Spanish will benefit you. If you don't know a single word then this is the best place to learn it. I didn't know anything in Spanish but I passed a course in Jaen and it was good opportunity to learn the basics. Otherwise there are plenty of international students if you are so reluctant to learn and speak Spanish.

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

From Aarhus the easiest way is to take a plane to Malaga (prices vary but usually it is cheap). From Malaga it takes 1. 5-2 hours by bus to Jaen (ticket is around 10 Euro as much as I remember).

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

There are many clubs and discos in Jaen to choose from. I cannot recall most names but there is always something for anyone's taste. Otherwise you can join a botellón and just spend a fun time of drinking and socializing in open air.

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

Again I cannot think of any names but there are a bunch of restaurants where you can have a nice meal. Also don't miss the Tapas bars where you get a free snack with your drink (french fries, paella, sandwiches, shrimps, cheese, potatoes... whatever they have that day). Also the big fast food chains and the local Kebab shops are always an option if you are very hungry.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The old part of the town is very beautiful with its architecture and atmosphere. Apart from that the fort in the hill above Jaen is something you must visit.

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

Just have fun there, join most of the events organized by the ESN group and travel anytime you have a chance. Spain is beautiful and there is a lot to see (car rentals are also cheap).