Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Andrea

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

I love to travel and I chose Madrid because it is perfectly located in the centre of Spain. All RENFE (train lines) connect to Madrid, along with the major aeroplane companies so it was easy for me to travel to and from Madrid. By centring myself I was basically at the centre of the spider web, making it easy to travel to Gijón, Barcelona, Sevilla, Granada. Basically, travel times were shortened. Also in , Madrid people speak regular spanish whereas in my other option; Barcelona, people mainly spoke Catalan.

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

I was there for 8 months. I live in New York City and my scholarships covered about 80% of my travel expenses and living costs. Living frugally and travelling extensively I spent about 12, 000 USD including flights.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

I went to ETSAM Politecnica I found it difficult to meet other students. I think this is because of the culture of architecture. Technical classes were rather time-consuming. I made good friendships with my roommates rather than integrate myself in a complex student life. But your roommates and people in your immediate environment are just as important as classmates. I find that I have long-lasting relationships with my roommates and friends. Even the woman from the Carrefour keeps me in mind!

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

Yes, I would. It doesn't matter where you study abroad, as long as you do it! ETSAM is a very large school with many international students so the professors are understanding. I had a great time.

What is the food like?

Delicious! Difficult to obtain breakfast and fast-food depending on where you live. Personally, I had to cook for most of my stay. In New York, you can just pick up food anywhere you go. For the most part, this is not the case in Madrid. Be ready to prepare your own warm meals!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

No, there are plenty of resources to find pisos for rent, most on the internet. I myself shared my piso with two roommates. Some helpful websites are:

Enalquiler

Pisocompartido

Segundamano

Feel free to email me, my previous roommate was great and he rents out rooms every semester.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

It depends since I lived with two other roommates my cost was about 280 euros per month. This included internet, phone, water, electricity, tv and etc. All combined/shared living costs. I lived near Argüelles which is connected to the 6 line, the circular line of the Madrid metro.

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

Yes, everyone speaks Spanish and many professors speak English. Since professors are made aware that you are foreign they try to work with you as best as they can.

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

I took a flight from NYC to Madrid.

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

One of the best places I partied was at Kapital. This place has 7 floors with a variety of music, I am sure you will find what you like here. Start with dinner around Callao and spend a night dancing in the neighbourhood of Salamanca!

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

Along el Prado Museum, there are amazing restaurants. The area near Lavapies is great as well. There are many shops and restaurants and their prices vary. I really enjoyed the restaurant Armenia, they have amazing sangria, and steak in green pepper sauce. Get some llaollao with graham cookies and caramel! It is delicious. Also As you exit the 6 train there is this small cafe. GET the cream filled donut and the tortilla de patata, it is so good.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

In Madrid there is the Templo de Debod, la estación de Chamartín, I would suggest travelling outside of Madrid too. To Barcelona, Granada, Sevilla.

One of my favourite​ cities to visit was Bilbao! Spend a few days in Bilbao, it is beautiful there! And they have the best tapas!

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

Enjoy your moments there! They are fleeting.

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