Erasmus Experience in Ljubljana, Slovenia by Prakriti

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Why did you choose to go to Ljubljana, Slovenia?

To be very honest, I was not aware of this place till I was informed about my scholarship. Though before coming I had done a survey and some information gathering about this place, the only response I got every time was that you will find it terribly hard to leave Ljubljana. And that exactly what drew me to this place afterwards.

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

I am enrolled in a full time Masters Program and thus my scholarship is available for two years ie: up to 2016. Presently I am receiving 1000 Euros per month, which is more than enough for bearing your day to day expenses. In fact at times it is a luxury as Ljubljana is not that expensive.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ljubljana?

Student life is the life in Ljubljana. Though I have not got the opportunity to live it to the fullest due to my commitments to the course but for sure I can say that it's wonderful if you are a student here. You have meals at subsided rates only applicable to the students at all the eating joints around Ljubljana.In addition to that if you are scholarship holder, you have umpteen number of outgoing parties and social gatherings that you will never refuse to. You also will have a chance to meet students from all over the world, which in turn is a great exposure.

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

Well I would be a fool if I did not recommend the place as well as the institution. For there are so many reasons to be here. It's a paradise in disguise truly. The scenic beauty and the wonderful location. Along with utterly friendly and safe environment is what makes Ljubljana a best hit among the students.

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What is the food like?

Food... hmm... This question can have a lot of biased effects as everyone likes the food of the place they come from and I am no different to it. As I come from India I had and in fact still have difficulties with food at times. But at the end of the day it is its food like we call it... so eventually I got used to the variety of turkey, horse meat, fried chicken they have here, Very different from my country but isn't life about testing the differentiated waters and food of course?

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Ljubljana?

Yes it did, and this was one of the main reasons that led to a very negative impact of this place on me at the initial stage. As there were some issues from the administration, I had no opportunity to look for hostels before leaving my country. I had to put up in a hostel for about a week, look for an accommodation and then shift finally and get settled.

How much does it cost to live in Ljubljana?

It does cost for sure but how much are you willing to shed is the question? Well if you ask me... for the initial stage you should be backed up by about 300 Euros as a safety net.

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

Yes! English is spoken widely among students, but you may sometimes find difficulties when in the city or around. There is not much of a problem with the language but it isn't that rosy ride either.

And yes you do have Slovene language courses available in the University.

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

I come from India, so by air is in fact is the only means!

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

The Center! This place is magical for some reason.

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

I have been hunting like a dog for Indian restaurants, and yes I did find some like the Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant, Namaste, Maharaaja, etc. I am sorry for being too much into the Indian flavors but I badly miss home cooked food and have invoked my taste buds only at these Indian restaurants.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There is a beautiful church just at the vicinity of the city Centre! You have the Castle! the Library is magnificent! The theater! These are probably the only sites I managed to explore till now.

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

It's a lovely place! It's safe and sound and happy. If you are getting an opportunity to come here, don't miss it! I bet you haven't seen a place as green and clean as Ljubljana!

Come fall in LOVE with sLOVEnia!