Erasmus Experience in Limerick, Ireland by Sandra

Why did you choose to go to Limerick, Ireland?

It was a purely professional decision. I was offered a good job offer there that I could not refuse.

Limerick, Ireland

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How long does the scholarship last? How much money do you get to help you there?

I did not go on any scholarship, my stay in Limerick was for professional reasons.

The city

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How is the student life in Limerick?

During the University's term times, it was clear that there were more students around from looking around the city and bars at night. In the student residence there was a very good atmosphere.

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

The city itself, in all honesty, no. It is not a nice city and the social activities it offers are few and far between. In addition to this, there is an atmosphere of sadness and misery surrounding everything, as if the fog of the river Shannon has engulfed everything.

I understand however that the University itself has a good reputation in Ireland for careers, such as fine arts and computer engineering, so it might be a good choice for some.

How is the country's food?

The food is not exquisite, the typical dish is fish and chips. People live off ready-cooked meals and sandwiches, but in the supermarkets (Tesco, Lidle, Dunnes) you can find almost anything if you do want to cook your own food.

Did you have trouble finding accommodation in Limerick?

No. When I went there I had already looked at some flats on the Internet and arranged appointments to visit them. I recommend doing the same and to see what rooms are available on the website - http://www.daft.ie is a must!

How much does it cost to live in Limerick?

I lived in a penthouse in one of the most modern buildings in the city, for a two bedroom apartment and two bathrooms we paid 700 € in total (350 € each) not including electricity bills. This rent was the most expensive, so a standard room would be around 250-300 € per month.

How's the language? Did you go to any university course?

I went to the Limerick Language Center, a highly recommended academy and especially Susan who teaches there; she gave me private lessons to prepare the Proficiency, because I could not attend any of the courses offered, and I liked it a lot!

http://www.english-in-limerick.com

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

During the summer months, fly from Bilbao or Santander to Dublin or Cork and then take the bus. I honestly recommend flying to Dublin because they recently introduced new bus lines, Dublin Coach (see http://www.dublincoach.ie), which travels much faster than Bus Eireann (see http://www.buseireann.ie), and much cheaper (€ 10, Dublin-Limerick), and the bus comfort is a thousand times better. However, when travelling from Cork to Limerick, the buses run less often (see http://www.citylink.ie).

In winter, unfortunately, Ryanair or AerLingus do not fly from the north of Spain to Dublin, so the best option is to go to Madrid and from there catch a flight to Dublin or Cork.

The University of Limerick

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Which places would you recommend for a night out in Limerick?

Nancy's, Mickey Martin, The Library, Icon, Costello's.

Nancy's

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And to eat out in Limerick? Can you name your favorite places?

Chocolat, Marco-Polo (good quality-price, I remember them having a lunchtime offer for 10 €). The Cornstore (a bit more expensive, but the quality is very good, one of the best risottos I've ever eaten). Cosa Nostra (even the Italians go to eat at this restaurant).

Food in Marco-Polo

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And what about for cultural visits?

Bunratty Castle.

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Bunratty

Do you have any advice you would like to give to future students of Limerick?

Take care when walking through the streets, especially at night, and when you're there you'll will see why.