Erasmus Experience in León, Spain by Tina

Why did you choose to go to León, Spain?

I did not really care where to go, everywhere has nice places and León had an agreement with my university and a place left, so I went there.

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

I receive 250 € per month from September to February.

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What is the student lifestyle like in León?

For me it is uncommon, because many students live at home with their parents...

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

Definitely.

What is the food like?

TAPAS! I am not such a meat and bacon fan, for them it would probably be nicer here, but the free Tapas thing is great! Pizza sucks in the whole city.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in León?

No, I just wrote to 4 people.

How much does it cost to live in León?

I pay 225 per month for rent. What I perceive is I spend more in purchases from the supermarket. But still all in all I do not spend too much I think. Going out and drinking alcoholic drinks is very cheap.

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

Yep. In the beginning of the semester there is a free 2 weeks language course. Spanish in León is one of the best, very clear pronunciation!

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

Well I went with Megabus from Frankfurt to Barcelona with an offer for 1, 50 €. And from Barcelona by train. Don't know how to go back, probably the same way if the offer still exists.

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

Molly's. El Traga. On Tuesdays those are the places for Erasmus students, on Thursdays for students in general but on Friday/ Saturdays full of old people. Saturdays we go to Estudio 54, but very late. Oh, and I like El Garden a lot.

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

"Las Tapas" is a Tapas bar where you get a great variety of Tapas and a beer for 1, 80 €.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are nice exhibitions in a pavilion but only for special occasions. Don't know if it's regurlarly.

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

Be prepared that winters can be cold! Especially at nights, mornings and evenings. León is a small city and when you go out you mostly don't have to meet people before because you will see them in the fiesta! Advantages and disadvantages; ) The level of Spanish University courses vary a lot, use the first week to see as many as possible before changing your Learning Agreement! Some people in this region are less open minded than in the Spanish South. If you come here to meet as many of them as possible you CAN be disappointed. But they are great people, they will help you with everything and they organise a lot of nice events!

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