Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Florence

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

I had the option to go to Lyon, France or Madrid. I wanted to go as far as possible.

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

About 300 euros a month and I was there for about 5 months. It was a minimum scholarship.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

It's vibrant! There are a lot of things to do, a lot of parties, botellones (look it up ;) ) and tapa places.

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

I went to a university outside of Madrid so my commute was pretty long. I think a university inside the city would have been a lot more fun.

What is the food like?

It depends on where you go. The tapa's can be supergreat or bad greasy food. I recommend everone to go to cien mandaditos every wednesday.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

Yes it wasn't that easy. Often internet or water wasn't included in the rentprices.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

Have fun costs money in Madrid. The prices in the clubs are high but supermarkets aren't expensive. Also ZARA and other Spanish stores are a lot cheaper.

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

I struggled at first. Especially during classes and tests. But I did take a course before I left for Madrid. I do really recommend that. There were courses available however, try to do as much as you can before leaving.

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

By plane. I took Brussels airlines and the subway to the city centre.

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

Absolutely! Just take out money.

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

When you want to go and get your Abono for the metro you need to go to a 'Tabacco' to fill the form in. You can't actually get one IN the metrostation.