Erasmus Experience in Krakow, Poland by Tina

Why did you choose to go to Krakow, Poland?

I have only two options: Poland or Spain. So i chose Poland because I was never really interested in visiting Spain.

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

I recived 450 euros per month, so it was enough.

What is the student lifestyle like in Krakow?

We sleep a lot :D Of course because of partying but it's not just that. I think the weather affects people here a lot. It's quite heavy pressure and it makes you very sleepy and sometimes also moody.

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

Yes i would. I mean...organisation is schools is not really that good, but on the other hand proffesors are really nice and they give you a lot of time to do your things and even if you have some problems they usually help you. About the city.... I like it a lot. It's beautiful, I like that it's not too small (so it's not boring) and it's not too big (so you get use to it quickly).

What is the food like?

I gain 5 kilograms so it's obvious that is good :D I really like sweet things, like pastry and cakes, and here you have bakery everywhere. Really everywhere. On one street you can find 10 of them.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Krakow?

No, When i applied for Erasmus I had an option to apply for dormitory also.

How much does it cost to live in Krakow?

It depends. Sometimes i spend more and sometimes less. I am paying 100 euros for dorm room, for food i usually spend around 50-70 euros per month (food is really cheap), montly ticket for buses costs around 12 euros and then the other money just disappers somehow :D

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

Oh, polish language :D A lot of strange letters. Since our langues are both slavic i thought i will understand more, but i don't. But i'm not good for languages anyway, so maybe for some other people it's easier. We are having courses at University.

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

It's a bus. Train is also not that expensive, but you have to change seats in Vienna.

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

I really like the Jewesh part of Krakow called Kazimierz, because you can find more alternative bars and clubs.

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

Hmmmm, I don't eat out a lot so I can't really say anything else except Wavel. It's really famous and it's cheap and soooooo good.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

It's a lot of things for example Castle, salt mine, Schindler's factory....

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

Bring a lot of warm clothes :D