Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Julia

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

My main goal of an Erasmus semester abroad was to learn Spanish fluently and Madrid seemed to be the city with the most clearly spoken Spanish. I also needed to live in a city that was as diverse and exciting as my home city, Berlin, and Madrid definitely fell into that category.

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

The scholarship lasts five months and I receive 300 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

If there was a perfect typical student city, Madrid would have to be so. The Malasaña neighbourhood is dedicated to vintage stores, pre-drink Street parties, streetart and a variety of themed bars and cafes. The museums and parks, inviting the tired students to relax after a hard day of procrastination, are too many to count.

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

What a question, of course! The city is a pure gem that you will soon feel to be part of. My University, Carlos III, was located half an hour south from the city centre, in Getafe. Nonetheless, it was modern and thriving. With its own fitness and sport centre, constant meetings from different student societies and entertainment places for students all around, you are going to feel right at home.

What is the food like?

Although I would suggest going to a seaside city, such as Barcelona or Valencia, to try the typical Paella, Madrid will not let you down regarding food options. I can recommend the "Bocadillo De Calamares", "Cocido Madrileño" and "Tortilla de Patata", as well as -of course "Sangría", and the refreshing summer version "Tinto de Verano". For any other dishes, Madrid boasts quite a few hipster Burger places and is even catching on to the vegan/raw eating lifestyle... You should try some of those special restaurants and the amazing atmosphere they have to offer.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

Actually finding an accommodation did not cost so much, but I put much effort on it and it was quite stressful. The housing market in Madrid is exploding and they are being taking advantage of this situation when it comes to rent. Be sure to get a place in advance if you want to be in the city centre.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

You need to consider housing costs are about 400 euros, food may cost you 150 euros, transportation card costs of 20 euros and partying/going out of about 100 euros, which will be 670 per month more or less. This depends on the person though, some might save a bit more, while others might be more spender.

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

Contrary to what I first thought, the spoken Spanish in Madrid is extremely fast and really takes some time getting used to. I would suggest finding a tandem partner, meet and speak on Facebook or making some Spanish friends out in the city (they are soo open and inviting) in order to improve your Spanish. As an international student, you will spend most of your time speaking with other international people in English.

Yes, my university offers language courses, but they are quite expensive (around 200 euros) so you might want to look at external courses in the city.

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

The easiest route from Berlin to Madrid is by plane. Thanks to Ryanair, this is also super cheap (around 25 euros one-way).

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

Personally, I prefer small local dance bars to clubs, where there is also a higher chance of you meeting actual Spanish speakers, as all internationals head to the big clubs like Kapitol, Schoko or Sala Cool. My favourite smaller venues were Space Monkey (rock music), The Wrong Way Bar (punk rock), Twist and Shout Bar (Harry Potter, LOTR themes) and Sala Cool Stage (live concerts). And of course, the place where any good night starts in Madrid is 100 montaditos. tTey are all over the city, offering beer and wine for 1, 5€, as well as the compulsory Tapas.

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

I really loved all the urban/ indie food places, so here goes: Goiko Grill, The Good Burger, Tako, The Greek Shop, Buenasana, Juicy Avenue. For traditional food, I am not too experienced, but all bocadillos that I had from corner shops were great. Oh, and of course, go to San Gines for the best Churros with Chocolate you can get.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Like I said, the variety of museums is incredible... I went in the Reina Sofia and was stunned by Picasso´s Guernica, as well as to the FOAM that offers temporary fotograph exhibtions. Of course, the Palacio Real is a must, the Plaza de Espana, Plaza Mayor and of course, Plaza Sol. But my favourite, and also a great late night hang out spot, was Plaza Dos de Mayo. Honestly, just take a stroll through the city and you are sure to pass a couple that will completely blow your mind.

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

Firstly, get the transport card that costs 20 euros a month as soon as posible. If you do not want to order it online, many tobacco shops such as the one in Fuencarral 80, also offer to make it for you. Join some Facebook sites such as Low Cost Madrid or ESN Madrid to always be up to date on the events. Other then that, enjoy!