Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Evangelia

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

I chose to go to Madrid, because I wanted to experience the Spanish culture, the life, the food and improve my Spanish.

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

I am here for only one semester, I've arrived in January and I plan to go back by the end of May.
The money we receive depends on the country we are from. For example from Cyprus we get €720 per month, which is enough to pay the rent and have some pocket money for extra living costs and to have fun in the Madrid!!

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

I would recommend Madrid for your Erasmus, because it is a very nice city, it is safe, there are many things to see and do and you will have fun for sure! Even if you go on your own like me, you will make friends, but you will also have time to yourself.

What is the food like?

The food is great! There are many things to try and you should be open to new things. Escape from your comfort zone and make sure you try everything! It is not always for the best, but at least you tried...

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

I found it difficult to find an accommodation in Madrid, but once you find the place you like, everything will go as planned. For any more questions, contact me.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

For me, the rent is €520/month. I believe the rents are similar in the center of the city. The prices in the supermarkets are quite cheap and if you go out there are many options offered.

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

For me it is a bit difficult to communicate, because my Spanish is not great. On the other hand, my English is quite good and I am fluent in the Greek language. The Spanish language has many words similar to the English and Greek and it is easy to understand.
There are language courses available at the University, but I did not sign up for them.

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

The easiest way to travel to Madrid from Cyprus is to go through Athens. There are no direct flights, but I believe it is the easiest and cheapest way to travel to Madrid.

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

I would recommend to go to Sol and from there walk in the streets and find the place that you like the most. For bars and late nights, I would recommend to go to Tribunal and there are many bars and clubs to visit.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are many cultural sites to visit, for example the Retiro Park, in which there are many things to see such as the lake, the crystal palace and many more. Also, the Fuente de Cibeles and the Puerta de Alcala. I also recommend to visit the Palacio Real and the Puerta de Toledo. You should also have a quiet walk across the Manzanares river and see the different bridges and the great park next to it.

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

Make sure that you can communicate in Spanish, because English is not used here. Also, join the ESN as soon as you arrive, as they will invite you to events and you will get to meet with other students from many countries. Make the transport card, so you can travel in and out the city easily. Explore the city with your friends or on your own! Have as much fun as possible and have the time of your life!!