Erasmus Experience in Łódź, Poland by Kos

Why did you choose to go to Łódź, Poland?

The reason behind my choice of going to Łódź, is mainly because it was the one and only choice in that period. I definitely had doubts at that time because Poland seemed to me as a very cold country, for whom didn't know much. But, trust me dear future Łódź Erasmus-es, you're going to love every single moment that you'll get to experience in Poland. Another reason, is that Poland is in Europe which makes life way easier and you get to travel around Europe. Isn't that so fun? Yes, it is.

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

Scholarship was 5 months long. I got 750 euros per month but it counts per days that your mobility started and ended. The amount of money was enough because Poland is not as expensive as other European countries. And if you know how to use it well, you can travel as much as I did. The more money, the better.

What is the student lifestyle like in Łódź?

Łódź is definitely a student city. It is so diverse. You will find every nationality possible in Łódź. Student parties are so much fun. Łódź is the perfect place for students.

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

I would totally recommend every student possible to go in Łódź. I think Poland is very underrated. It is truly a beautiful and interesting country. Why not change your life within 5 months? I never thought I would, but I am so glad I changed my whole life. University of Łódź is a top university and I am so glad it's in my resume now.

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What is the food like?

If there's one thing that I'd have to complain about... it would be the food. Maybe it just depends on taste and the food you got used to eat, but personally I didn't like polish food, but there were many Turkish restaurants and Chinese, which I totally recommend. One of the Chinese food places which is super cheap and super delicious is called Złoty Smok, which is near Dorm 3 in Lumumby.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Łódź?

I lived in a dormitory. It was dorm number 3, the best there could be. It was like 70 euros per month. You could live in rentals but those are much expensive. Also dorms are in a great space, right near the University.

How much does it cost to live in Łódź?

Personally, I also traveled a lot so it cost me, but if you don't like traveling, you can even save money.

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

Yes there are Polish courses, which I didn't take but I learned basic vocabulary. In Poland, in general people don't really use English. Especially in Łódź, even in banks or train stations, they hardly speak any word, but still you'll manage it, even with body language.

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

My city is Prishtina in the country of Kosovo. The easiest and most economical way to travel to Łódź from Prishtina is by plane. It just depends where you live.

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

On a night out in Łódź, you should go out in Piotrkowska Street. It is the longest street. Matter of fact, you should go out there at day time and night time. The best parties happen to be at: Lordis' Club (on Thursdays especially), Czekolada, Pijalnia, Abracadabra, Magic Bar (on Mondays), Piotrkowska Off.

Do not hesitate to go everywhere because you will regret it later.

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

Manufaktura shopping center has a lot of restaurants, it even has McDonald's. I also mentioned Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants, Pin Up restaurant, in Piotrkowska street you can find lots of them as well.

What good cultural places are there to visit?

In Łódź there are a lot of museums, unlike any you've ever seen. But I'm going to suggest you all the places you must visit:

• Muzeum Fabryki
• Łódzki Ogród Botaniczny
• Museum of the City of Łódź
• Zoo Łódzkie
• Palac Izralea Poznanskiego

Also, please visit other cities in Poland, like:

• Krakow
• Warsaw
• Poznań
• Wroclaw
• Gdansk
• Gdynia
• Sopot

You can travel there to stay through the day and it's cheap.

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

It is an unforgettable experience that you will want to go back every time you remember it. No matter if it's Łódź or any other city, being Erasmus will put your life on another level. It will give you so many benefits, but if I had to choose, I would always choose Łódź.

For anyone who wishes to know further details, like I'd love to know when I was in your place, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Eriona Ajvazi (3rd year student and worker of AAB College). If you would also like to know about my college and background, visit here.