Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Karolina

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Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

I chose to come to Madrid because Spain is a country that is close to my heart, because of its culture and wonderful people. I also like the climate very much, it never gets really cold here. And of course, I love the Spanish language.

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

Some of the living costs:

• Metro pass - 35EUR under 23 years old, 54EUR over 23 years old.
• Phone contract - 9EUR with Tuenti, between 10 and 20EUR with other companies, depending on what you are looking for.
• Food - between 30 to 50 euros per week.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

Many parties everywhere, it is a city that never sleeps, full of bars and restaurants open until late.

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

I recommend you to come to Madrid, it will be an unforgettable experience and a grip of a culture that is totally amazing!

What is the food like?

Try the tapas!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

I was looking for a month until I finally found the place that I thought satysfying, but if you are lucky it is not that hard.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

Around 600 euros a month.

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

You can find Spanish language courses anywhere, and believe me, it is not difficult to speak Spanish.

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

I took a flight from Warsaw to Madrid with Polish Airlines or Ryanair, from Cracow to Madrid.

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

Clubs like Gabanna and Kapital are a bit more expensive. If you are looking for something cheaper, go to Independance, Joy, Moondance or many others in the area of Puerta del Sol.

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

100 montaditos and La Sureña are definitely the best tapas bars with lots of cheap beer. To eat, I would recommend VIPS and Foster's Hollywood.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Puerta del Sol, Plaza de Cibeles, Plaza Mayor, Gran Via, Palacio Real, Estadio de Santiago Bernabeu and many others.

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

Enjoy!