Erasmus Experience in Madrid, Spain by Živilė

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

Because I love three things more than anything else - football, sun and food and Spain seemed a perfect place to enjoy it. Madrid mostly because I'm a Real Madrid supporter.

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

I got 400 euros a month. It helped a lot, but was not enough. With these money I could only pay for my room and monthly metro ticket.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

Since Madrid is huge, the lifestyle is the one that you make yourself. You can party every day, you can study everyday, but usually you just sit in 100 montaditos every day. :D I mean, Madrid is perfect for every kind of lifestyle.

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

The city I would recommend to everyone, and university (I studied in URJC Vicalvaro) only for those, who prefer partying over studying, because studying there you have plenty of free time and classes that are not too serious.

What is the food like?

The best. Okay, I miss sour cream, kefir and probably some other stuff from Lithuania, but come on - jamon, chorizo, tinto de verano and tapas are simply amazing here! Perfect place for a food lover.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

I found it in a week after arrival, was kind of easy.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

For me it's 350-360/month.

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

They are available, but very expensive. But I had only Spanish basics and got away with it perfectly, Spaniards usually are very friendly and try to understand you.

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

Taking two planes, or going with a plane to Barcelona and then with Renfe to Madrid.

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

Basically anywhere in Sol - el tigre, troika, kapital, independance, oconell's, moondance or just any place full of people.

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

Tommy Mels :)

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I loved Templo de Debod, Santiago Bernabeu, Retiro, Plaza de Cibeles, Palacio Real.

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

Madrid is perfect, but expensive.