Erasmus Experience in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain by Barbara

Why did you choose to go to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain?

Because I had an opening place for Erasmus placement, English assistant, but I also saw that it was a nice place, with good weather and interesting culture.

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

For now it is 4 months, but I hope to prolong it to 6 more months. I get 400 euro per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria?

I much as I can see, it is a really good city for students who want to enrich their lives and gain a new experience.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to other students?

I am not qualified to talk about the University, but the city is simply "una maravilla" :) I would recommend it to every student.

What is the food like?

I really like all the traditional food, which can be similar to Spanish in general, but yet so different and charming. I think that it will sweep you off your feet :)

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria?

No, it was pretty easy, you have a lot of adds on the Internet offering you all kind of accommodation, you just have to choose.

How much does it cost to live in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria?

It is not too expensive, it definitely depends on you habits, but if you don't exaggerate, you won't have any money problems.

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

I am really happy with Spanish, I manage to learn it in 3 months enough to be able to communicate (but I prefer writing this in English, as I can express myself better :) ). I didn't take any courses, just listening to all the people around me. And when you need to use it everyday in all spheres of life, you get used to it very easily.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria from your city?

Combination of bus and plane. Bus to Zagreb, and later plane to London and then plane to Gran Canaria. Or different combination, depending on the time of year and special offers.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria?

Thursdays definitely Vegueta, old part of the city where you can walk from bar to bar getting a snack and taking drinks. During the weekends, you have areas near the port and near Santa Catalina park that are full of life.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria?

I wasn't eating out much, but I like Wok in El Muelle and Biberon in las Canteras.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

In the city you should go to the Auditiorio, Museo Elder, Old town of Vegueta, Colombo's Museum and on the island you should definitely visit Roque Nublo, Las dunas in Maspalomas and Puerto Rico.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in the future?

Do not doubt coming here even for a minute, it is a magical place that will find a special part in your hearts, I am sure. Just try to explore the island and islands as much as possible and enjoy every moment :)