Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Kelly

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

Had accommodation there because my husband is from Madrid.

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

I got the Erasmus grant which helped with some living costs.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

As a mature student I had a great time, there were only a couple of mature students in some of my classes in Madrid but most people are really friendly and easy to get to know. Other classes such as history and philosophy have more mature students.

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

Yes there is so much to do in Madrid. Although I would avoid the touristy places as they are much more expensive.

What is the food like?

For me a loved the Spanish diet but I also prepare a lot of my own food at home. I would often go to the student dinning room to heat up any hot meals I had prepared.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

No for me it was easy as my husband had a place for us to stay.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

Depends on what you buy. For under 25 years public transport is really cheap only 20 euros per month. For over 25 it is still much cheaper than the UK. My train pass only cost 38 euros per month. Electricity, gas is expensive and so is the water.

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

Yes there are language courses at the uni but I would not recommend them. It is much better to join a club which has a majority of Spanish students rather than going to a class with other Erasmus students and speaking just a little Spanish.

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

By train or metro very good service. Although trains and metros in rush hour are packed!

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

Not sure there are lots of clubs bars, theatres and also food markets.

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

For really cheap but quality food which sells great jamon as well as calamares EL Museo de Jamon, if you go to the one at Plaza Major eat inside as outside everything costs treble the amount.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

So many, the Egyptian pyramid, castle, the beautiful Retiro park which has a crystal palace, art galleries etc. I would definitely recommend going to the art gallery Prado.

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

Save up a lot as you spend much more than what you think, especially if you want to make the most of it and see places outside of Madrid.
Have fun! The first month or so is awful (as its such a hassle with course choices etc) but after that it's great.