Erasmus Experience in Ljubljana, Slovenia by Alix

Why did you choose to go to Ljubljana, Slovenia?

To be honest, I didn’t get a choice in which country I went to, because this was the only university which my home institution had a link with and the only which had the subjects I study, but it is the best opportunity that has ever fallen into my hands!

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

I am here for 10 months (one academic year) with Erasmus. I receive around €220 per month to help with the living costs, everything else is funded by myself through savings and a student loan.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ljubljana?

This is a very relaxed and welcoming city. Generally people are friendly as most people are in the same situation of studying abroad, they are all up for having a good time and seeing new things!

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

Yes for definite! The city is beautiful and there are always things going on! The university is very helpful with the transition of international students into Ljubljana life (especially the experience I have had with the Faculty of Economics).

What is the food like?

Mostly the food has influences from Italy with lots of pizza and pasta and some Slovenian restaurants which serve traditional dishes, but in general there are many different types of food available for a good price (especially if you have student meals coupons).

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Ljubljana?

No. I used the housing anywhere site which allowed me to browse the accommodation free of charge.

How much does it cost to live in Ljubljana?

Generally, costs of living are low especially if you are in student dormitories. However, I live in private housing and have my own bedroom but share a kitchen and bathroom with other students, this costs around €350 a month with bills included.

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

Slovene is very difficult and almost impossible to learn if you have not grown up with it or have experience with other Slavic languages. There is a language course available at the start of each semester which provides you with the basics, however, typical sayings can be picked up in everyday life here and many people speak English so learning Slovene isn’t a must!

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

Definitely by bike - everyone here cycles! You can buy your own bike/hire one for the year or semester or alternatively use the city bike scheme. The bus links in Ljubljana are also very good cheap.

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

There are lots of different places you can go depending on your music taste or whether you want to party or just have a few drinks.

Metelkova has a range of different events on at the weekends and during the week the main places to go are Shooters, Preskelet, Top Six or wherever there is an Erasmus party!

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

• Robba- typical Slovene dishes
• Joe pena’s - Mexican food
• Da bu da - Asian
• Foculous -pizzas

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

• Ljubljana Castle
• Many museums - art/history/architecture, etc.
• Churches and buildings of national significance

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

Take every opportunity to travel as much as you can while you are here - it is so easy to get around by bus and car to many bordering countries!