Erasmus Experience in Lisbon, Portugal by August

Why did you choose to go to Lisbon, Portugal?

Recomendation from a friend who did his Erasmus in Lisbon. But also from my own, earlier experiences of the city. I'd visited the city before.

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

I was there for one semester, between January and July. I don't remember how much money i recieved to be honest. I had my own money, Erasmus money and loans and grants from the state.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lisbon?

It's amazing. Perfect in every way, I really miss Lisbon. I was there in the spring-semester, and I would think that that's the best one to choose, because you get to enjoy the wonderfull weather and lot's of festivals and stuff.

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

I studied at Nova, a very good school, especially if you're into economics. The only negative thing I have to say about the school is the adminastrive stuff; it was complicated and timeconsuming to choose courses. But that's not a main issue.

What is the food like?

Very good. A lot of restaurants all around Lisbon. They are pretty price-worthy too.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lisbon?

It was very easy for me to find accomodation. I went to Lisbon and stayed at a hostel for four nights and to search onsite, which was easier than i thought.

How much does it cost to live in Lisbon?

It depends. You can live very cheap if you wish, but if you wish to enjoy all the activities and stuff, maybe around 1200-1400 euros per month at least (but maybe i'm wrong, I don't really remember).

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

There are language courses available, but not at the same location as where i had my other courses, on Nova.

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

Fly (from Sweden)

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

Urban Beach, Chapitos (spelling?), Lux and Docs (?) and some other places. Lisbon has a great nightlife, you should always start your night out (not at home) in Bairro Alto, the bar-district.

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

Chapitos in alfama, a good fishrestaurant in Intendente and some "Meat-on-a-rock" restaurant in Bairro Alto.

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Lisbon?

Try to find accomodation near Santa Apolonia. That's where I lived, and I found it to be the best area for students. They have student-accomodation there.