Experience in Madrid, Spain by Jennifer

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, Spain?

I am currently studying Spanish at University and I wanted to gain some immersion experience in the city.

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

I was here in Spain for 1 year. I received 1000€ a month in Madrid however different parts of Spain give different amounts.

What is the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

The student lifestyle in Madrid is fantastic. There are thousands of things to do no matter where you go for example bars, restaurants, sights and places to make friends. You can easily find cheap places to drink for students on a budget.

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

I would recommend coming to Madrid for the experience of being able to pick up conversational Spanish and making friends of different cultures. It is great to gain experience of being independent in a different country as it gives you more confidence. When you return home you will feel like a more well rounded person.

What is the food like?

The food is great. There are tapas places on every corner in the center with authentic Spanish food that has something for everyone. Delivery is also extremely easy granted you live relatively central.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Madrid?

It does cost to find accommodation. It is better to come to Spain to physically see where you will live as there can be apartment-cat-fishing online, so this will cost you to stay. However, generally it is quick to find accommodation in Spain.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

For shared houses with other students anything between 300-500. For nice flats and living alone between 600-1000.

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

The language is very easy to pick up to a certain point e.g. (ordering food, checking out in stores). If you want your Spanish to improve greatly I recommend taking extra classes in conversation.

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

Definitely the metro. For under 26 year olds, the monthly ‘abono’ travel card is €20/month. It is absolutely worth it as you’d spend so much more without it on travel. It can also be used on the above ground trains and busses.

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

For good nights out I’d say the Center such as Sol, Gran Via, Malasaña and there are more. The center is easier for native English speakers as if anything goes wrong, you will most likely be able to find another English speaker.

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

I would say be open to trying traditional Spanish food as you’ll find something you like. There are so many dishes of meat, seafood, vegetarian, everything. You’ll find tapas places no matter where you go.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Plaza Mayor, Puerta Del Sol, Segovia, Toledo, Templo de Debod, Retiro Park, Bernabéu Stadium, Plaza de Cibeles, Royal Palace of Madrid.

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

There are many pickpockets in Spain. Everywhere. Never have your phone in your back pocket or an open pocket without secure zips or buttons. If a situation seems strange, do not engage with the person as it is most likely someone trying to distract you to rob you. Keep your phone away on the Metro. Do not have your phone or purse out in your hand out in tourist attractions or at clubs. I cannot stress these points enough as many British people in Spain are victims of this, including myself. You can never be too careful with robberies here.