Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Eunice

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Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

I mainly chose to go to Madrid cause I didn't want to stay in England. I just wanted to go somewhere sunny and with a total different culture to England. Somewhere far but not too far in a way.

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

My internship is 6 weeks and I haven't received any money to help me with living cost, it was all self funded. However you should double check with your university as they do offer bursaries (it is quite competitive).

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

It is amazing! There is something to do everyday. Madrid is so big that it's impossible to be bored. There's also great student discounts available.

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

I will definitely recommend the city as it is amazing. I haven't left yet and I am already missing it. Love their sales too, everything is quite affordable. If you come from England you might be quite surprised, but I am originally from France, which is very similar to Spain.

What is the food like?

The food is very Mediterranean, you will find sea food practically everywhere. There's also alot of pork / jambon practically everywhere. But if you don't eat pork you can find anything else you like. Theres also a variety of fruits.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

I got my internship through the Intern group. There was a fee to pay to them which included accommodation and all bills + transport.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

It is roughly €100-150 a week if you eat out or €20-50 if you decide to cook at home.

Then there will be additions event such as clubbing €10-ish depending of where you go.

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

After hearing it quite a lot, you will start picking up words, but make sure you practice even if you're not sure.

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

Metro. The metro is the easiest way and quickest as well.

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

Moncloa or all the great neighbourhoods. Madrid is a city that doesn't sleep and people tend to go out late since everything is closed late so 7/8 pm is the start of some people.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

• Temple de Debob;
• Toledo;
• Barnaby stadium;
• Madrid rio;
• Palace de crystal;
• Reina Sofia;
• Retiro.

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

Make sure you do as much research and practice basics in Spanish. Also remember, experience is different for everybody. Before I went I heard many things about Spanish but so far none have seemed to be true.