My Erasmus Experience in Lille, France. By David.

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Why did you choose to go to Lille, France?

It's in the heart of Europe, really accessible for travelling anywhere comfortably and for a very acceptable price. In fact, I made many trips to Belgium, Holland, Luxembourg, England, etc. Then, I also wanted to discover what it was like to live in France, with French customs and culture. Finally, in academic terms, I did not want to miss the year, and in France the academic level is always strong.

How long did your grant last? How much money did you receive?

The scholarship is for one semester, I received 2, 000 euros from the ministry of Spain. And then, in France you have the CAF, a French grant that gives you about 100 euros per month, which always helps. It's also true that it's a pain to ask for the CAF, they ask you for a lot of paperwork and it takes a lot of time, but when you get it, it's very good.

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What is the student life like in Lille?

It's a lot of fun, a lot of going out, there are many students from all over the world, a lot of French people who are not only from Lille, but also from Paris, Bordeaux... and like I've said, a lot of Erasmus students so you can go out with them and learn from them...

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

Yes, it's cold and it always rains, as well as the fact that it's cloudy, but the city is beautiful and it has its own charm, and the university is quite good. And I say, going out and the student lifestyle is special.

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How's the country's food?

I don't particularly like French food (a lot of butter and strong cheeses on everything), but I make my own meals in the residence's kitchen and I don't have a problem with that.

Did you have trouble finding accommodation in Lille?

No, you have to go with some spare time so that you don't get too stressed with finding accommodation. Go and see residences or flats as soon as possible. I'd recommend residences if you want to meet people and always want to have plans. I'd recommend apartments if you want more tranquillity and comfort.

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How much does it cost to live in Lille?

Lille is expensive, but if you manage to buy everything in cheap supermarkets, and avoid wasting a lot of money, you can save loads.

What about the language? Did you go to a course at the University?

No, but you have to come more or less prepared if you don't want to suffer a lot. My recommendation is to come with a French language level of B1 so that you have a base, and that way you learn much more. But there are also people here who have come without knowing anything and they defend themselves with Spanish and English, and they are slowly advancing with their French.

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

Plane to Brussels, and from there to Lille. It's the quickest and most comfortable way, apart from being cheap, too.

What places would you recommend to go out in Lille?

Solferino always, there are loads of bars each with a different vibe, and with lots of people there almost every day.

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What about eating in Lille? Can you tell us your favourite places?

Eating out is very expensive in Lille, I recommend that you eat in your kitchen, and that you meet friends in flats and make international lunches and dinners and don't eat very often in restaurants and such.

How about cultural visits?

Lille is a city with a lot of culture, events, museums... Culturally speaking, Lille leaves nothing unsaid.

Any advice you want to give to future students in Lille?

Take the first step, Lille is a good option! You only have to take a thick coat with you and come with the desire to eat the world, it is so worthwhile. You are going to learn English, French, and how to handle yourselves in this world, away from your parents' home.

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