Erasmus Experience in Kocaeli, Turkey by Matīss

What is the student lifestyle like in Kocaeli?

Relatively conservative place, quite boring lifestyle, not much of a nightlife.

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

Better to choose some other option. If in Turkey then Istanbul, Ankara, Eskisehir or Izmir.

What is the food like?

Food is great as we know that Turkish cuisine is great in general.

How much does it cost to live in Kocaeli?

Relatively cheap, 400 euros per month is enough + parties and travelling extra (you will want to go to Istanbul all the time, believe me)

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

There is EILC available, language is quite hard and people in Kocaeli mostly don't know any other languages.

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

Plane to Istanbul, then shuttle.

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

Sorry, almost no options, there are some bars, nothing really interesting.

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

Good, cheap Turkish food - Ertosunlar.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Marmara sea coast

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Kocaeli?

Better don't waste your time here. I myself moved to Istanbul in the middle of semester and it is one of the best decisions ever.