Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by natasa

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

Because I love Europe and I was learning spanish from High school. I didn't want to go to South America I have always wanted to go to Europe.

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

I came from Australia and the government helped me alot. I was receiving allowances every 2 weeks + 10,000 loan that I got from the government. I stayed for a year. If you share accomodation it is easier to because you don't pay that much.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

Very easy going but if you are doing units in SPanish you will have to study a little bit extra. They are very relaxed people not worriers. It is an very cool place to live.

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

Yes definitely it was the best experience of my life. Spain is not as dangerous as everyone might think. I actually felt very safe. But you have to make sure you don't look like a real tourist I mean then you might be taken advantage of but act like you are in your own city and you will be fine...

What is the food like?

NIce, they eats lots of JAmon - hahahah but thats all good.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

idealista.com best site for accommodation.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

well depends... you maybe 500-600 euros a month. Save as much as you can that is my advice. Train will cost you about 40 euros a month, rent 260 ( sharing could b more o less) then food its relatively cheap but it depends on where you come frm. In sydney its quite high compared to madrid so for me it was cheap. Going out all depends on you entry into clubs is usually 15 euro but thru uni alot of the time u get in for free depends

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

yes first 2 weeks of spanish whihc will help you but i suggest studying before hand at least a year 6 months anything is good before hand

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

lol aeroplane hahahhahaha

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

Gabana 1800
Joy Eslava
Capital
the penthouse in Plaza de santa ana more of a bar but very classy
Pacha - havent been but they say its good
Shoko in la latina love it

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

El mercado de San miguel i love this place everything is cheap and little sooo gooodddddd

plaza mayor they have nice stuff restaurants

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

the palace in madrid
al ambra but thats in Granada amazing place everyone should go
museo de prado

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

if you want any advice message me on [email protected]