Experience in Madrid, Spain by Javier

What is it like to live in Madrid? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Living in Madrid is like a rollercoaster, so many millions of people moving everywhere by public transport every single day 24/7.

The city was created by the Arabic Empire Al´Andalus for a really long time and Madrid (in Arabic) means land next to the water because there was a River (Manzanares) which was big and good for agriculture. Madrid became the capital of the Spanish Empire with King Felipe II.

This city needs no recommendations at all, just go to Facebook and look for groups about topics that you enjoy the soonest possible because that will open the doors for those who can properly speak English. But, not only that go to the Tourist Information Office because there are plenty of small trips to do from Madrid that are worth and chip.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

Well, the student lifestyle does not really exist. From my point of view, there is only one lifestyle which is the Madrileño style. A Madrileño works hard during the day and parties three nights in a row if wanted because there are many clubs to go to. Moreover, there is plenty of culture with great museums to visit and Madrid has so much history that is worth getting to know. For example, Madrid fought the French of Napoleon for their freedom and won by beginning the revolution at Malasaña neighborhood which the name comes from in honor of the lady fighter Manuela Malasaña.

Moreover, the gastronomy is really good. You have many promotions in The Fork app to go to great places to eat, drink, chat or soever.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

I would say that it can oscillate between 800-1500 €/month

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Madrid? Is there any advice you can give?

No there is no difficulty but prepare the wallet. Madrid rent has increased so much in the last 10 years.

I am sorry but I have no advice about websites but there is a portal call Idealista where you can find anything in this country. Also, Facebook groups. Who knows you can always try Airbnb and find someone.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Cocido Madrileño, Pollo a la cerveza, Callos, Churros de San Ginés, could be some.

What places would you recommend visiting in Madrid?

Malasaña Neighborhood, Toledo, El Escorial, La Latina, Lavapiés, Aranjuez.

Is the nightlife good in Madrid? Where is good to go?

It´s great you have so many options to go out.

Just google it and you will find it.

What advice would you give future students heading to Madrid?

I would advise you to join Club Corredores. This is an athletics club which is not superexpensive and all over the city. They are great people and very open-minded.

Go to all the ESN plans if you come as an exchange Erasmus student.

Additionally, for the theater go to Teatro Canal o Teatro La Latina.