Erasmus Experience in Lleida, Spain by Megan

Why did you choose to go to Lleida, Spain?

When choosing my choices to study abroad, Lleida was in fact not in my top choices of places to study. However I am very happy that I was sent to Lleida.

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

As I study two languages I have to go to the two countries to study. I spent 4 months in France and 6 months here in Lleida. I receive the Erasmus grant, personally that only helps with rent.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lleida?

The student lifestyle here in Lleida is very sociable and friendly. They have student nights and a facebook group which is great for knowing what's going on and what events to attend. There are plenty of bars and clubs, you just have to find them!

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

Definitely, I think Lleida is a friendly community and very cultural. The University can be difficult as it is a Catalan University, however, there are courses taught in Spanish as well.

What is the food like?

They have a variety of food and many supermarkets which have everything you need. The traditional Catalan dishes are delicious as well!

Was it difficult for you to find your accommodation in Lleida?

No, I found my accommodation on the Lleida Facebook group.

How much does it cost to live in Lleida?

Depending on how much your rent is. Mine is a little more expensive than others, however, my flat is modern and very comfortable. Also it's a great location! And of course depends on how much you spend on food, study, socializing, traveling etc.

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

There are Spanish languages courses and Catalan language courses. I am in fact taking both courses, both are quite good. They also do a 2 week intensive language course of both languages at the beginning of both semesters. The Catalan language is difficult to get to grips with as everything is in Catalan, but nearly everyone can speak Spanish here too.

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

Either the train or the buses. Or of course bla bla car!

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

Depends what sort of music and atmosphere you like! Queens, Fissure, River!

Source

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

D-Vinis.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

La Seu Vella.

Source

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

As soon as you get here, try and join in with all the Erasmus events and attend everything you can! By doing this you will meet more people and slowly get to know the place a little better! Attend University to make sure you know what's going on, you don't want to miss too much University as it's hard to catch up with everything! And of course make the most of your time here, it goes too fast!