My Erasmus Experience in Madrid, by Alyssa

Why did you choose to go to Madrid, in Spain?

I chose to go to Madrid because I loved the idea of being in a capital city and being assured that I could find anything I wanted there, whilst only being a stone's throw away from home.

How long's your stay? What financial aid do you receive?

I stayed there for one academic year and I was receiving 250 euros a month from the Erasmus grant.

What's the student vibe like in Madrid?

Awesome. Due to Madrid's huge number of different universities, the student and Erasmus community is enormous. There are student nights every day of the week in all corners of Madrid and there's Erasmus activities organised all year long.

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

The Autonomous University of Madrid, although not in the centre, is awesome. The campus is really friendly and very easily accessible. And of course I'd recommend Madrid!

What's Spain's food like?

Um, I liked a few things like tapas, but they seemed to replace the lack of vegetables in every dish with a couple litres of oil instead!

Was it difficult to find somewhere to stay in Madrid?

I moved accommodation after the 1st semester, it was complicated but only because I had a restrictive budget. Madrid is a lot more expensive in comparison to other cities in Spain, like those in Andalusia for example. But if money isn't a problem, then you'll have plenty of options!

What are living costs like in Madrid?

It costs the same as any other capital city, but it's more expensive than other cities in Spain, except for Barcelona.

What's it like learning the language there? Did you take part in any language courses organised by the university?

The first semester, yes, it helped me to get going as I couldn't speak a word of Spanish before I arrived. After that, it just depends on how much effort you want to put in. You need to surround yourself with people who will teach you the language, not just stay with other Erasmus students!

What's the most economic way to get to Madrid from your home town?

Ryanair!

Where do you recommend going out in Madrid?

There's something for all tastes! Everyone can find somewhere that appeals to them- there's plenty to choose from!

And to eat in Madrid? What are your favourite places?

It's a chain called la Sureña, but it's really good. If that's not your cup of tea, there's all the tapas bars in the centre!

What cultural places do you recommend visiting?

The museums are a must-see, like Reina Sofia, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Prado.

Any advice for future students going to Madrid?

Enjoy every moment because time goes by too quickly!