Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Inés Siara da Bahía

Source

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

I chose Madrid mainly because of the university. I studied at Carlos III de Madrid. Its reputation is extremelly good and the empirical evidence confirmed it. Moreover, the cultural offer was another reason to go.

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

The scholarship was for one year, two semesters. During this time I recieved 500 euros a month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

I couldn´t be better. Thanks to some pages like Erasmusu or Facebook you can contact to other students and that allows you to meet people and create groups, find rooms... and get some support of course.

Do not be afraid of being alone. There are thousands of students coming to Madrid every year and they are as lost are you are right now. That is why eramus friends are forever, you will create your family there.

In Madrid students can find all types of parties. It does not matter is you prefer Indie, Heavy or Pop Music. Your favourite club and people will be there waiting for you.

For those students who rather prefer cultural stuff, you will find the best museums: Prado, Reina Sofía and Thyssen. Of course, there are all sort of exposition and alternative art events. I recommend you to go to the Filmoteca, it is an amazing place to enjoy good cinema. In Yelmo Cines you will find films in original version.

Student lifestyle has it all: good party, good cultural offer and amazing views.

Source

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

Of course. It is neccessary to keep in mind that Madrid is a really big city so you need to be careful because of the thiefs. Do not show off to much and avoid some streets. Away from this, I totally recommend Madrid and the University.

Above all I recommend Carlos III and Complutense.

For example the university Camilo José Cela is so far from the city centre.

What is the food like?

The food in Madrid is really cosmopolitan. You can find all kind of prices and all different kind of restaurants.

If you want to eat cheap go to Malasaña, some buffets in Sol, Chueca or Lavapiés. If you want something more fancy and expensive Madrid de los Austrias is your place.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

Actually, It didn´t. It is important to take accommodation as soon as you can but you can find all sort of rooms during the year.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

I spent 1000 euros a month but, as everything in this life, It is up to you. I made friends there that need more than 1500 to live and others with 600 euros.

In order to have fun you do not need money. Its possible to live away from the city centre and have an amazing social and cultural life. The Metro is really good and all the city is well-conected.

Good and cheap supermarkets? Eroski or Día.

Source

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

Spanish is not difficult. Actually is quite similar to English. Try to learn something before arrive. That will make your first days eassier.

Yes, the university have language courses. Also, it is possible to find a lot of academies with good prices around the city.

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

Without a shadow of a doubt, ryanair.

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

I loved to go to Malasaña, Chueca and clubs around Sol but, of course, It all depends of your taste.

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

Any restaurant at Plaza Mayor is great. Also, around Lavapiés you can find the best turkish and indian restaurants.

WokSol close to Plaza Mayor is a good free buffet. Cosme at calle Duque de Sesto and La Doma are quite good, as well.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Walk is the best way to enjoy Madrid. Do not loose all the Madrid de los Austrias, Plaza Mayor, Mercado de San Miguel, Puerta del sol, Retiro, Gran Vía, Plaza de Cibeles, Plaza de España, Templo de Debob and Palacio Real del Prado.

Go to the Rastro on Sundays and to Casa de Campo.

The Filmoteca is great and, of course, the museums I told you before.

Source

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

Be careful about you wallet or purse. Do not go to narrow streets or lonely ones. Ask to your university which streets in order to avoid them. If you have so doubs do not hesitate to comment and ask. And do not be afraid. It is gonna be the experience of your life.