Experience in Lyon, France by Amalie

What is it like to live in Lyon? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Lyon is a beautiful city! People are a bit calmer here than in Paris. Everyone who likes French cities would love Lyon. The food and wine is amazing, and if you are a real foodie this is the city for you.

What is the student lifestyle like in Lyon?

Nice, but it's a bit hard since France is the country of paperwork and checks (we don't have checks in my country). You also have longer lunch breaks than usual. People are nice to give you time to learn the French words for everything.

How much does it cost to live in Lyon?

I'm from Denmark, so everything here seems a lot cheaper for me. But you also get a much lower salary.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Lyon? Is there any advice you can give?

The languages! French is complicated and often people speak only French, and sometimes Spanish. That can also make it hard to meet people. But there are many different websites where English speakers make events and meetups.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Really good, it is the capital of French cuisine! The local food here is heavy but filled with flavour. Many of the classic dishes from France come from Lyon. Not to forget Mr. Paul Bocuse the godfather of traditional food.

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What places would you recommend visiting in Lyon?

• The light festival in December - over a million people come to see it, but it's cool
• The food hall of Paul Bocuse - for real foodies
• The old part of Lyon - many tourist, but it's nice
• The big park "Parc the Tête d'Or" - good for chilling out side.

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Is it good to eat out in Lyon? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

• Mokxa - for good coffee
• Daniel et Denise - good local food
• Palégrié - awesome food.

Is the nightlife good in Lyon? Where is good to go?

The nightlife is good and that's where you will meet people, who speak English

• La Maison Mère - nice club
• Redwood, L'antiquare and Black forrest - good cocktails.

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What advice would you give future students heading to Lyon?

1. The languages are hard to learn, and no matter how good you think you are, they won't understand you in the beginning.
2. Don't care about people making fun of you, when you try to speak French (they will).
3. Many internships are not paid... Don't work for free...
4. Don't ever sign up for anything, it's a pain in the ass to un subscribe.. fitness centre, etc.
5. Shop at the local food market, it's so much cheaper.