Erasmus Experience in Kraków, Poland by Nekane
Why did you choose to go to Kraków, Poland?
I didn't choose to go there, it was the destination that was assigned to me. But actually, I'm very happy to have gone there.
How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?
I was there for three months and the grant was €1, 200, which I spent on my accommodation, a return plane ticket and a transfer from the airport to the hostel that I was staying at.
What is the student lifestyle like in Krakow?
It has a really good atmosphere and a lot of young people, being a university city.
Would you recommend the city and the University of Krakow to other students?
I would definitely recommend it. I don't know much about the university, because I was there for an internship, not to study. But it's an incredible city.
What is the food like there?
The food is amazing. The main food stuff there is meat. Their food has strong flavours, some different sauces and soups. Don't be closed off to things, try all of the food there, if you don't like it, there's McDonald's there, too.
And you can't go there without trying the "zapiekanka", they're a delicious type of panini.
Was it difficult to find accommodation in Krakow?
Ikaslan found my accommodation for me. I was in a hostel that was 20 minutes walk away from the city centre. But it had very good bus and train connections. Comparing to my hostel "on the outskirts" of the city to other flats in its centre, my accommodation was really good.
How much does it cost to live in Krakow?
It's cheaper to live in Krakow than it is to live here in Spain, taking into account that things are more expensive here than in Krakow.
Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the university?
The language is difficult. I took a week of Polish classes and, yes, they were useful. But if you don't interact with the people from there, it's not useful at all. Being a university city and that the majority of people there are young, you can get by speaking English, the young people there speak it and they're really nice and friendly.
What's the easiest or most affordable way to travel to Krakow from your home city?
The most affordable way is by plane, if you book it a bit in advance.
Where would your recommend for a night out in Krakow?
The prozak bar, afera, bacarat, shots. Partying isn't an issue, there's a night life vibe there every day of the week.
And to eat in Krakow? What are some of your favourite places to go?
Well, I don't know. If you wander around, there are a lot of little stalls or restaurants, which you might not notice at first sight and they're the best places to go. In the Jewish quarter, there are a lot of cheap restaurants.
What good cultural sites are there to visit?
There are a lot of free tours and they're really good. I'd recommend that you go on all of them. It's the best way to get to know the city.
Do you have any advice for students coming to Krakow in the future?
Explore, lose yourself and have a great time.
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