Paloma's Experience in Madrid, Spain

What attracts you to living in Madrid? Do you recommend it? What's it like?

Madrid is a very cosmopolitan city. There are lots of things to do and you can meet people anywhere in the city.

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What's the student lifestyle like in Madrid?

Madrid has a very good student atmosphere, especially in the Ciudad Universitaria area and also in some university campuses in the rest of Madrid. Additionally, lots of the faculties of the different universities have parties throughout the year.

How much does it cost to live in Madrid?

In terms of prices, Madrid can vary a lot depending on the area you live in and what you're looking for. You can find very expensive places, especially if you move to areas where there are lots of tourists, but you can also find very cheap places if you know where to look.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Madrid? Do you have any advice?

I can't give any advice as I am from Madrid.

What's the country's food like? What are your favourite dishes?

I would define the food of Spain as one of the best in the world, if not the best. Apart from being very good, it is very healthy and good quality. Anyone that visits Spain must try paella before they leave, as well as gazpacho (in summer) and, of course, go for a beer to try the different tapas they offer in bars (try and avoid very central places where there are lots of foreign tourists).

What places do you recommend visiting in Madrid?

In terms of cultural visits, I would recommend going to the Temple of Debod, the Royal Palace, the Retiro Park and the entire downtown area (Sol, Alcalá, Gran Vía, Plaza Mayor... ). In terms of leisure, I would recommend going out in the Huertas area, going to one of the big clubs like Kapital, and visiting the luxurious shopping area of ​Serrano.

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What about eating out in Madrid? What are your favourite places?

My favourite places to eat and drink in Madrid are La Sureña (cheap if you want to drink beer and have some tapas), + KCopas (perfect if you want to have drinks or cocktails without spending a lot of money), Taj Mahal (if you're into shisha), Artemisa restaurant (for veggies... and for those who aren't), Ginos (if you want pizza and pasta) and Gambrinus bars (for beers and tapas).

Which places do you recommend for nightlife in Madrid?

When going out in Madrid (especially if you are a student) the best area is ​​Moncloa, where there are several clubs where all the young people of Madrid gather and you can also go out without spending too much.

Do you have any advice for future students in Madrid?

If you come to study in Madrid (although everything depends on the university and degree), you will have to put in some effort as the universities are quite demanding. But you also have to take the time to enjoy everything that this magnificent city offers, so make sure you organise your time well.

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