Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Rohit

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

It looked like a good city to live and I had the opportunity to do my PhD in one of the best universities in Spain.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

It's really great. Renting apartments in Madrid could be a little expensive. The prices for shopping and eating out can be a little cheaper in comparison to some European capitals but certainly it's not a very cheap city.

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

I would highly recommend it. It has a very vibrant student life and local people are very nice and friendly. They like to talk and get to know people from different countries and in my experience they are quite open minded. As a foreigner I have very little to complain about in this city, well except the bureaucracy sometimes - it's painfully slow at times. :(

What is the food like?

It's very good. Spain is famous for it's tapas. It's cheap, good and comes free with drinks at most bars, and surprisingly in big portions at many places. Aprat from spanish food you can also find food from all over the world.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

No. I found my apartments from websites like www.idealista.com

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

A shared room in an apartment with 2-3 people in or around centre can cost about 400 euros. Apartments would be around 700 euros (1Bedroom apartment).

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

Yes. All you need is practise. there are plenty of courses in university and private classes too. Try intercambios in bars around Madrid to practise your spanish with local people.

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

Malasana, Sol, La Latina, Huertas are the famous areas in Madrid to go out. Plenty of bars and clubs.

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

For bars - go to Malasana or La Latina.
Try El Tigre, Montaditos, Malinche in C\ Hortaleza (for mexican tacos) for cheap eat-outs.
For international cuisine -
Indian - Curry's near Callao, Taj near Sol, Tandoori Station (tip - Please avoid Lavapies for Indian restaurants. I am an Indian and I know those places are neither good on quality nor authentic.)
For Arabic try La Princesa in Embajadores - very good.
Greek - taberna griega C\ tesoro, 6, 28004 Madrid
Japanese - Musashi C\ Conchas 4, Madrid
There are plenty more...please explore Madrid. You won't be disappointed.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Pick up any travel guide about Madrid. Read!!! ;)

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Madrid?

Go out as much as possible and meet local people. Get to know their culture and try to understand them better. Be responsible. Enjoy your stay. And don't forget to study. ;)