Erasmus Experience in Lyon, France by Becca

Why did you choose to go to Lyon, France?

My choice to study in Lyon wasn't motivated by anything in particular. I just knew I wanted a big city, something very different to everywhere i've lived previously. it was really a toss up between Lyon and Lille without any real research which is not the best way forward but I'm glad I came to Lyon. I wouldnt even change it for Paris.

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

My classes started early September and have just finished (Nov 27th). Now theres a period of exams which lasts into January. Whilst most students are going home for the christmas period but i've decided to stay. I receive a loan and a grant from the uk governement and also 300 euros a month from Erasmus+.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lyon?

The student lifestyle in Lyon is fantastic, especially for erasmus students. It often seems like there are event every other night with organisations such as ESN or istudent. Also I found that alot of places offer student discount for example the confluence museum is free with a student card as well as cinema discounts too.

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

Definitely, I wish I could stay forever. regarding the university, it's true that the administration system in France is ridiculous and theres nothing you can do about it, I didn't really run into any administrative problems at the university the people at the the international office were all very helpful despite always being a bit flustered. Nevertheless, there are many points of contact for any problems you may have, but don't expect a reply right away (I studied at Jean Moulin 3).

What is the food like?

Well, Lyon is the gastronomic capital of France so there's no shortage of restaurants to try. But I'd recommend finding a traditional lyonnais bouchon, even if you only go the once, it's authentic lyonnais cuisine, theyre all over the city but I'd say they highest concentration is in vieux Lyon.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Lyon?

I did pay 350 euros to use the university site although it's a deposit you can get back, but if you don't use their site then the charges obviously won't be the same.

How much does it cost to live in Lyon?

I pay 600 euros for a home stay in the centre of lyon with meals included, so my situation is by no means typical. There is also an opportunity go get some of your money back through an organisation called the CAF I'm not entitled to it myself as I do a homestay but a friend of mine gets up to 200 euros back a month. France being France she had to fill alot of forms in to get it but it's a good scheme. I'm sure you'll find lots of other information about it as I'm afraid I don't have much. The CROUS residences are quite cheap but i've not heard good things about them, I think coming from England I took good uni halls for granted. some are nicer than others though, at the end of the day, you get what you pay for.

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

You'll find that many people here speak english which is a blessing and a curse. I actually did an integration week where we had a week of language course but then once university started I had french lessons every week at university. There was an opportunity to do a tandem with a French student at my university. There's always people looking to improve their language skills be it in English or Spanish or whatever your native language might be.

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

TCL transport card for sure. It's 31 euros for the month for a student pass, I would highly recommend this it's by far the cheapest way. Otherwise you pay 1. 80 for an hour ticket or 14 for a pack of 10. The transport card covers trams metros and busses so it's a really great investment! But don't forget to renew it at the beginning of every month! theres also the VELOV bikes which many people use to get from A to B.

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

There are lots of cool bars in vieux Lyon and also in the 1st arrondissement. Also try quai de rhone for clubs like ayres rock.

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

Lyon is full of great restaurants. I found a hidden gem called WTF food which just does bagels, but like the best bagels youve ever tasted. My favourite is called e-roti-ka, the name says it all. Other than that I'd reccomend the 1st arrondissement for kooky little bars and restaurants or for the less adventurous theres the confluence shopping centre which I liked because when you go in theres a list of all the food places in a line with prices and specialities lined up for you, great if youre travelling with a picky eater or you yourself are a picky eater. if all else fails there's always Quick. For foodies I'd also reccomend les halles Paul Bocuse.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

As Lyon is the 2nd biggest city in France (I'm aware theres contention between Lyon and Marseille but I'm biased) theres no shortage of culture, especailly as lyon dates back to roman times. Because of this you can find roman ruins in Lyon such as the Amphitheatre close to the Fourviere basilica and also the Amphitheatre des Trois Gaules. There are many museums in lyon such as the Musee des Beaux Arts and the recently constructed Confluence Museum (free entry with student card). You could also take a trip to Lyon's famous opera.

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

The only other tip I would give would be to make use of the organised trips, often by ESN or Istudent, they're so so cheap and it's all organised for you which is great if your quite lazy and disorganised like myself. It's also a great way to meet students in your situation.