Erasmus in Madrid. Just one word: go.

Why did you decide to go to Madrid?

My university did not offer many choices, and Spain was obviously the best option. Initially, I was not very sure about the city. My choices were Granada, Valencia and Madrid, but then I decided to go for Madrid (I will not bore you with the reasons that brought me to this choice).

Madrid is indeed a capital on a human scale. There's is one sentence that represents it to the fullest, and whicj meaning you will understand the day you move over there. It goes like this: Madrid is like a woman not particularly pretty without whom though, you cannot live.

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How long was the scholarship? How much money did you get?

My scholarship was for 9 months. Basically the whole academic year. I only got the scholarship provided by the European Union which is of 230 euros per month. Better than nothing, yet I can assure you that you will not be able to afford neither the alcohol for that money.

What about the student environment?

Well, it's very international. You will find yourself speaking with people coming from all around the world. Everybody is open-minded, ready to meet new people, you won't feel alone. And the Spanish people will be there to help you, if you make some effort.

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

The city offers you everything. You will have places to visit and if you are a girl you can get back home without too much fear. The city is also well connected in the sense that you have a metro, bicycles you can rent, a metro every 5 minutes and not that expensive taxis. The so-called movida (night life) is never ending, people have this relaxed pace, beer is so cheap (something you will regret back home in Italy) and the Chinese shops are always open (you will be needing them, trust me).

As for the cons, there are not many. Personally, I missed the sea. Other cons are not even relevant to mention considering the pros.

My university was Universidad Francisco de Vitoria (UFV) which is private. We've got a very American campus, free bus, laboratories and other facilities. I don't feel like recommending you to go there because of the method they use which reminded me of the typical Italian high-school (compulsory attendance, no benefits of being an Erasmus such as that of easily passing exams). Another issue has been the fact that the organization concerning exams is a mess. Still, I would say that it is still amazing to experience something new, something different.

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How did you manage to find accomodation?

I used Idealista to see the offers and contact landlords, then I went to see the place. If you are fast and pay attention, you will find whatever you look for.

What about the cost of a flat?

I used to live in some amazing flat. In total, there were 12 of us from all around the world. We were basically a family. We had 7 bathrooms (I had my own), cleaning service three times per week. The location was in the center, 200 metres from Puerta del Sol. I paid 500 euros, all included. It's not that cheap sure, I know, but it was great value for money. Generally the price ranges from 300 to 600 euros (all included). It's up to you.

What about the language? Did you attend some language course?

No, I did not. In a couple of months you will be able to communicate and by the end of the year, you will prefer to speak Spanish rather than Italian (or whatever your native language is). But to get there, you do not have to go to live with other Italians (or more generally people from your country or speaking your language) and do not be afraid of making a mistake: nobody will laugh at you.

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Where would you recommend us to go out at night?

Ok, I do not even know where to start from, I could go on all night listing you places. Malasana, Latina, Chueca are amazing places for a pre-drinking and exploration tour. Actually, I could recommed you something: Casa Camacho. Concerning clubs, there are many on different days of the week and if you pay attention you could as well not pay. There is Kapital, Gabana, Independance Club, Fabrik, Star Studio, Joy Eslava, Teatro Barcelò, Sala Marco Aldani and so on. Follow your heart or your need of alcohol.

What about places to visit and see?

Well, Puerta del Sol, Gran Via, Palacio Real (royal palace), Prado, Retiro, Museum of Reina Sofia, La Tabacalera, la Estación de Atocha, El Rastro, el Templo de Debod, Plaza Espana, all the area of Lavapiés and Malasaña.

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Do you have some piece of advice for students coming to Madrid?

Enjoy your freedom, discover new cultures, walk alone, get lost, try to understand what there is behind things. Do not care if you feel tired, wake up, go to university, get back home and do whatever. It really does not matter what. Talk, laugh, cry, argue with the people on the same path as you, because that is what you get once it is over. I really do not know when I am going to see again that bunch of personages, but look forward to. You will be back home as new people, better people, with experiences others around you cannot even grasp. You will be back sad, mad, depressed but stronger, independent and free. You will want to get back there, I know, I am sure.

I will cry now so I need to stop here. I wish that now, now that you read my story, you will not have any more doubts and decide to go.

Buen viaje hermano!

If you need some advice, feel free to contact me.