A Completely Crazy Erasmus Semester in Madrid!

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

I chose to do my exchange in Madrid because I wanted to find a country close to home (France), where life wasn't too expensive, and where you're guaranteed to have a good time. Spain ticks all these boxes and more; there's lots of students from all over the world, you'll meet so many people, you'll open yourself up to others, and discover a new culture which is really rewarding.

How long do you stay there for?

My stay isn't over yet, as it lasts for 5 months in total (from January to May). I haven't received all of my bursary yet.

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What is the student vibe like in Madrid?

The student atmosphere is amazing; there's so many things organised for Erasmus students like evenings out, cultural evenings, bars, clubbing, and trips. It's crazy how nice the students are! There's a good atmosphere in general- it's all just parties and having a laugh all the time. I love it. It couldn't have been better.

Would you recommend the city and the university of Madrid to other students?

Yes, I'd recommend the city to other students for the laid-back atmosphere, the open and nice people, and that there's so many students from all over the world. I would recommend University Carlos III because the campus is awesome, they teach good quality lessons, and the exchange students aren't forgotten about at all- they organise so many things to make your stay as good as possible.

What is the food like in the country?

The food is good! Some of Spain's traditional dishes are tapas, tortillas, paella, and of course you can't forget jamón, the country's most loved food. My one and only complaint is that the food is a bit fatty. But, the meals are great to share with friends, especially in restaurants as they tend to serve big portions, so the bill is also less heavy on the wallet.

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How did you find accommodation?

I found a place to live thanks to a site called 'idealista', a great website for finding accommodation in Spain. I came a week before the semester started with my Erasmus friends and we looked together. We did a lot of viewings before finding the perfect apartment but we're all happy now.

What is the price of rent like? And living costs in general?

Generally, the closer you get to the city centre, the more expensive accommodation gets with price varying from 350-550 euros. I was lucky, I got the place I wanted from the beginning and it costs 300 euros, I'm in the centre, it's big, and I can do what I want, but my room is small in comparison to the rest of it. I think you just need to know how to bargain.

What is it like studying a language there? Have you been to a language course organised by the university?

You learn the language by speaking with other foreign students, you should force yourself to do it even if you're shy! We're all in the same boat, we all want to perfect our Spanish (especially the French- which is why we don't hesitate to just throw ourselves in and talk). I mean, that is how you get better!

There are language courses organised by the university but I didn't attend any due to my timetable I think, but they are a good alternative to improve your level.

What's the most economical way to get to Madrid from your home town?

Flying is the best way to get to Madrid from Paris as there's a lot of low-cost airlines- great for students.

What places do you recommend for going out in Madrid?

There's clubs like Moondance, Joy, Pacha and Orange Café which are good and are often the locations for the organised nights out. There's also pretty decent Irish bars or la Fontena de Ojo in Sol which is cool. In Sol and Tribunal there's some really chic areas which are the best for partying and meeting up with everybody. You absolutely need to try out Outlet which is the cheapest bar in the city and where all the students hang out.

And to eat in Madrid? What are your favourite places?

My favourite place to eat is at the Museo del Jamón; it's good and it's cheap, you can sit down and really eat or just have a drink at the bar with your friends- there's no where better. There's also 100 Montaditos where sandwiches are 1 euro, and I think after that, towards Calle de Huertas, there's plenty of nice little restaurants and tapas bars.

What cultural visits do you recommend?

There's many museums like Museo del Prado, Museo de la Reina Sofia (modern art), la Caixa del Forum (a place which puts on expositions, galleries, museums, and concerts). There's also el Parque del Retiro where you can go on a boat ride around the lake, la Playa Mayor and el Palacio Real. After exploring Madrid you should also try the closer cities like Toledo, Salamanca, Segovia, and then even travel around Spain and visit places like Andalusia. Why not venture out to Portugal or even to the Maghreb?

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Any advice for future Madrid students?

I would tell them to cherish the moment, carpe diem, as Erasmus really is the best exchange programme in the world. I think that it's a rewarding experience; you learn about yourself and also about other people, you share unforgettable moments, it's a non-stop party and it's just amazing! So, get involved and you really won't be disappointed.