Erasmus Experience in Lisbon, Portugal by Pedro

Why did you choose to go to Lisbon, Portugal?

It's one of the big European capitals; nothing to envy any other for. It has many incredible monuments, a good climate - a city where there is something to do everyday.

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How long is your scholarship for? How much money do you receive as aid?

The scholarship lasts for around 10 months and I received €1, 900 in October and the rest at the end of the Erasmus.

How is student life in Lisbon?

The atmosphere is the best that you can find, Due to the large amount of Erasmus who come to Lisbon for four months, no matter what day you go out; there are people from all over the world to have a good time with.

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

Yes, since although it may be the capital of Portugal, there isn't too much stress like in other big cities. The University is dependant on what you're taking, but they don't normally make it easier for you and you have to study and apply yourself to the level of the class, but there are no prejudices if you do the minimum everyday.

How is the country's food?

The food is good, very similar to Spain. The prices vary a lot in the supermarkets.

Was it hard to find accommodation in Lisbon?

Yes, finding a good place to live is complicated. Some prices are rather high for normal lodgings or even 'strange'. There are many Facebook pages where you can find flats, or through Erasmusu.

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How much does it cost to live in Lisbon?

We're talking around €600 a month, depending on what you're paying for a flat every month.

How is the language? Did you go to any course at the University?

Yes, there are many courses at the Universities, Erasmus organisations, etc. It's not an extremely difficult language but the idea that on arriving, we had to switch completely when I didn't understand anything of what they were saying... Now after a few months, I'm now more 'aware'.

What's the most affordable way of getting to Lisbon from your city?

Train to Madrid (€20) and from Madrid to Lisbon by plane (€25, buying the tickets a month in advance). There are also a fair amount of blablacars available as well as coaches.

Which places would you recommend to go out to party in Lisbon?

For an average night: The Alto area, Cais do Sobre and Primero Andar.

For a night of partying: Place, Main, Lux, Music Box, Pink street.

Recommendation: Never go to Urban Beach (The doormen look for any reason to be aggressive. Look on the internet for stories about them).

And to eat in Lisbon? Can you name your favourite places?

Any bar outside the centre. None of them usually disappoint.

And as a cultural visit?

Going to all of the city's viewpoints is obligatory. Belem, Cristo Rei, Alfama, Mercadillo da Ladra, Colombo, etc. and (Caparica, Carcavelos, Peniche and Nazare for surfers).

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Any advice that you'd like to give to future students in Lisbon?

Enjoy every single day to the maximum. It will be June before you know it, and you won't know how.