Erasmus Experience in Leeds, United Kingdom, by Raúl

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Why did you choose Leeds?

The main reason I chose Leeds was because I wanted to go to an English speaking city so I could perfect my language. Between the options that my university had given me, Leeds was the only place with a good university and the best student life.

How long was your Erasmus placement? How much grant did you receive as help?

In total, I received around 5100 euros for the whole 9 months. My course started in September and finished in May, but I extended my stay until the start of July, because I was staying in halls and the stay ended then.

What is the student life like in Leeds?

It is a perfect city for university students. Although not that big, it is a great place to live, and it is not too expensive (some aspects of living are expensive because of the currency exchange rate) and there is so much going on for students. During holiday periods, it looks exactly like a ghost town because there are no students.

There are activities for young people throughout the year (starting with the legendary Fresher's week which is dedicated to new students starting university). The areas to study and the student facilities are brilliant. Nothing like universities in Spain!

Would you recommend the city and Leeds University to other students?

Without a doubt!

What is the food like in England?

English food isn't the best but it is something that you easily get used to. There are big supermarkets (Morrisons is the best) where you can find everything you need. Do not forget to try the famous 'Fish and Chips' and make sure you're a fan of tea! Some advice: learn to make a Spanish Tortilla and leave all of your English friends amazed. Also, try and buy meat in big portions so it is cheaper and you can save some money for going out and beer.

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Did you struggle to find accommodation in Leeds?

No, there are lots of websites where you can find student housing, as well as plenty of university and public residencies. On the university webpage you can find lots of helpful information: leeds.ac.uk.

How much does it cost to live in Leeds?

The rent is relatively expensive, and to be honest, living there is more expensive than in Spain. If you live in a city like Madrid or Barcelona, you might not see much of a difference, but coming from Salamanca, where rent and prices are low, you will notice it a little more.

How is your language? Are you taking a university language course?

In the university, you take a language test at the start of the year to asses your language level. The university runs free English classes for international students who have a lower level of English.

What is the cheapest way to get to Leeds from your city?

Getting from Salamanca, it's complicated. I will explain. I get a direct bus to Barajas, a plane to Manchester (there are no direct flights from Madrid to Leeds) and then I take a train from Manchester to Leeds. There are 4 ways, but you lose the whole day.

What places do you recommend to go out in Leeds?

Tuesdays are the Erasmus night in The Eldon. The Old Bar, in the Students Union building on campus is also really good if you want a quieter night or a nice place to have dinner.

As for clubs, there is Oceana, Tiger Tiger, Terrace, O2, Fruity... and of course, Halo which is open every Monday and the drinks are only £1. Inside it is an old church, next to the campus and it is amazing. Actually, there is a wide variety of places to go out. I cannot remember what they are called, but the adverts in the streets advertise all the good nights out and parties in the city.

In addition to this, students often do something called the "Otley Run" which is to when you get together with a group of friends and dress up in a costume and go to all the pubs in Otley Street, starting in the afternoon (about 4pm) for as long as your body can last. Some advice: I do it on a Monday, and finish in Halo...

What about places to eat in Leeds? What are you favourite places?

I used to love going to Yate's for a huge homemade burger and chips and a drink for £4. Also, it is transformed into a pub during the evenings. If you are looking for somewhere in the centre and you don't have much time, a sandwich or a pie in Greggs can save the day for only £1. The Original Oak, in Otley Street was also very good. There are lots of places to eat, but it is best to discover them once you are there.

What about the cultural sites?

Culturally, Leeds doesn't offer a lot, although there are some interesting places. The port, the Royal Armories Museum, the abbey which has a museum about the restruction of the city in the 19th century, the City Hall, and the streets for shopping in the centre are also very pretty, with covered walkways decorated with stained glass. The city of York is very close and can be visited in just one day.

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Any advice that you would like to give to future students going to Leeds?

Make the most of your time there. In Leeds, there are things to do all day and all night. Concerts, exhibitions, markets, shops, city tours... don't just stay at home. Get yourself a good coat and see as much as you can.