Erasmus Experience in Krakow, Poland by Marcelo

Why did you choose to go to Krakow, Poland?

Mainly because of the Prices and Culture difference.
As Iberian person I would prefer something away from western side of Europe.
Poland couldn't be better option because People are very helpful and sympathetic in general. You feel like at home every time you go to the Main Square with friends. Even if you don't go with them, you will find them there.
Cracow may not have metro services, but they have very flexible timetables for public transport and very "cozy" prices.
The Landscape in wonderful so it is highly advised to check mountains and other surroundings towns.

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

I was there for 5 months and I receive an average of 205 euros per month. Obviously it was not enough since, during Winter, it was not even enough to pay accommodations and utilities. But there are several things where you can save money when compared to any other country (westerner country).

What is the student lifestyle like in Krakow?

A student in Krakow can even go out every night if he wishes. Transportation is flexible and Main Square will always have someone to be with you. During the day you can just go to main square or suburbs. It will always provide a very good moment. But do not forget about study (at least for examination session).

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

The City i would surely recommend to anyone. It is small if proper for students' life. It is like Porto or Coimbra in Portugal.
About the University it depends on the objectives of the student. Of course it is not very "popular" or "well ranked" but you can always learn something and the set of english courses are quite wide.

What is the food like?

The food was the hardest thing to get used to because it is quite different eating habits when compared to my home country. But you can always find something that suits on you and, as last resort measure, you have Carrefour or Biedronka close from you and just need to know how to cook.
Prices at restaurants are, anyway, very affordable. And the food provided is generally good.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Krakow?

Cheaper accommodation. Yes it was. But, since ERASMUS students prefer to stay close from city center it is expectable that prices are never low. But you can always try to contact an Agency (and try monthly contract) or try here in Erasmusu or Gumtree.

How much does it cost to live in Krakow?

Lower price than any country of western European country. The only thing that might become expensive is the money you spend going out. In such City as Krakow it is expected that you will spend some money on booze. But 24h drinking stores will make your life cheaper.

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

Polish language courses were available and for free. It is a very hard language to understand but I guess it is easy to get the basics and to understand you people mean when they explain you something. But, on average, you can easily find someone who speaks English on the streets, namely younger people.

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

From my City (Porto) it is definitely better to go by plane if you can afford a ryanair flight and send your luggage by mail.

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

There will be a lot of clubs, pubs and equivalents in the Main Square. If you like something different (bowling, karting, ...) you have to try away from the City Center. But in general you will find very good pubs and clubs in the City Center.

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

Cheaper restaurants you can also find in the main square. But generally you have to look not exactly in the main Square but in the parallel streets. Otherwise try to have a meal in your university. Prices are quite acceptable. "Pizzaria"s are also very cheap (but I can't assure you for quality).

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Zakopane
Bielsko Biala
Wroclaw

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

Take care.
Drink smooth.
Don't kill yourself with alcohol.
Stop in the red lights if you are not used in your country. Police doesn't like it.
Avoid to drink in the road. Police really hates it.
You will feel safe, you will have fun.
Travel a lot. You're in the middle of everything and you've cheap flights, international buses.