My Erasmus Experience in Kraków, Poland. By Héctor.

Why did you choose to go to Kraków, Poland?

Eastern European countries have always caught my attention. When they gave me the option to go to Kraków, I didn't think twice about it. Furthermore, given that the Erasmus grants aren't very large, it was a good idea to not spend too much money during these months.

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

I receive about €200 per month. It's a bit crap, really. But okay, at least Kraków's cost of living is much lower than Spain, so you don't need to sell a kidney each month either.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Kraków?

Extravagant! In Kraków there are thousands and thousands of students, and among them there are thousands of Erasmus. If you plan to be able to go out every day of the week, you will always find someone to go out with you to a bar with a good atmosphere. (And also for day plans, because here you don't just go out during the evening... )

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

Without a doubt!

What is the food like?

At the moment I have liked everything that I've tried so far: pierogi, soups, potato pureé, chicken... Truthfully, I was expecting worse food, but I am surprisingly happy with this aspect.

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Was it difficult to find your accommodation in Kraków?

Nope My Erasmus mentor recommended me from the very first moment to apply for a place in the student residence (of the AGH), and I did not have any problems. They soon gave it to me, and as soon as I arrived in Krakow I went straight to my room.

As for the shared flat, it's another issue all together... Finding something good, nice and cheap is complicated (and even more so if you arrive in the 2nd term, like me). That being said, I have colleagues who are in cool flats while paying prices that you would pay in downtown Madrid perfectly.

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How much does it cost to live in Kraków?

Room in a student residence = €80-100/month

Transport: simple ticket (student discount) = 1. 4pln (30 cents approx)

Normal beer, Cruzcampo = 4pln (€1)

Food in supermarket = prices similar to Spain (although a bit cheaper)

Eating at certain places or restaurants sometimes is cheaper than cooking at home

Going out: if you want to have a good time = €10/15 per night

Clothes = the same or more expensive than Spain, in general

Gym = €25

And I don't know, I can't think of anything else...

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

For me, Polish is impossible. People say that 5 months is not worth losing time to studying such a dodgy language.

What's the best way to travel to Kraków from your city?

From Madrid by plane, with Ryaniar.

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

Bania Luka, Pijalnia, Teatro Cubano, Gorazcka, Shine, Baccarat...

Is it good to eat out in Kraków? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Koko, Bordos (or something like that), Pod Wawelem, the stands next to the Lewiatan supermarket in the AGH...

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

All of the centre of the city and the Jewish Quarter. Take a walk next to the river when it's sunny, for me it's the best thing.

What advice would you give future students heading to Kraków?

If you're boring, come over here and you'll get rid of all the embarrassment. Woo!

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