Erasmus Experience in Jaen, Spain by Roberta

Why did you choose to go to Jaen, Spain?

I could choose among three different city within Spain (Tarragona, Barcelona and Jaén), I finally chose this latter cause it's in Andalusia and I wanted to discover some more authentic parts of the territory. Therefore I gambled, but I won!

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

I've been living in Jaén for 11 months with a monthly lump sum of 210 euro from my university. Living costs are quite convenient over there, but my scholarship wasn't enough for provide my sustain. I was able to fully cover the housing costs (rent and expenses, internet included) though, and sometime I also had some money left.

What is the student lifestyle like in Jaen?

It's about attending classes, whose attendance is mostly mandatory, and I would say also recommended considering the spanish educational system. Lectures imply a lot of activities, such as the so call 'practicas' or assignment to complete at home or in the class. All these activities are part of the essential steps to pass the exams. Especially for erasmus attending classes is very good to practice the language, meet new people who usually is more than willing to help them.

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

I will always recommend both of them, but giving also the advice that we are talking about two medium-range realities, therefore make your choices take this into account, in order to match your expectations.

What is the food like?

The food is amazing over there for its wide variety and quality. Food (and drinks! ) in Spain is en essential part of building relationship and discover a lot about the culture. So enjoy and be curious(/hungry)!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Jaen?

In a couple of days I was done! Go first at the university and check the offers at the many bulletin boards.

How much does it cost to live in Jaen?

Approx. 500 (having fun as well)

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

The university is offering courses both before the academic year starts and among it. I suggest people who is not familiar with the language to take the courses, also because you are going to be surprise by the andalusi accent spoken there. Sometime it might be difficult to grasp also by those who already studies spanish, but no worries, you are going to be proficient in both versions: it's the same language, it's just about to make the ear to that.

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

Plane

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

If it's about to eat there are many bar and tabernas, but i particular appreciate the tascas in the casco antiguos, close to the cathedral. those are the oldest and best ones. If you want to have fun in a pub, then go to Dean or El bodegón, then continue the night (if you are able to) at Aire 21 or the former ariloche (i know the name has changed), but it's in the bulevar.

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

Taberna el Hortelano, Al Pilar del Arrabalejo, Pato rojo (special seafood), La manchega

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

the cathedral, los banos arabes, the whole Madgalena barrio, San Ildefonso,

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

just the motto of the town: "A jaén se llega llorando y se sale llorando" (Where u arrive in Jaén you cry, but also when you leave it). Don't rely on the first impression if it's not positive, it's going to surprise you.