Erasmus experience in Malaga, Spain

Why did you decide to go to Malaga, Spain?

In reality, it was because my faculty offered more scholarships to go and study in this city. But as soon as I arrived, I fell in love!

How long was the placement for? How much money did you receive to help you?

My placement was supposed to be for six months, but I decided to extend my stay. Hmm the money... I got very little, but I think it was organised at the discretion of how much money each university had, and what is given by the EU really isn't a lot.

What is the student atmosphere like in Malaga?

It's great, there are students from all over the world. There's a really strong bond between all the international students. The only thing I noticed was that the Spanish students were very reserved, with only a few exceptions.

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

Yes, absolutely, even if I can't compare to other Spanish universities. I've got on really really well here, I'd recommend it to everyone.

What was the food like where you were?

Oh the food... amazing! Fried fish, migas... it's not a city where you can go on a diet.

How did yo find your accommodation?

Through an agency. There were loads available. A painter offered to call an agency for us to find us a house. The day after I arrived in Malaga I already had an apartment.

Was the rent expensive? And expenses in general?

Compared to other Spanish and Italian cities... not very expensive at all.

How did you cope with the language? Did you go to any language courses at the university?

No, I didn't go to any courses, but they offer two throughout the year. I chose not to go to it because I study Spanish in Italy, so I already knew it pretty well. It's a great way to make new friends though.

What's the cheapest way to get to Malaga from your city?

Ah this is the only problem for students who unfortunately don't live in a city with an airport that Ryanair operates from... I had to get three connecting flights to pay a reasonable price.

Which places would you recommend for going out in Malaga?

Ok this is where I'm an expert: for dinner, maybe start with Tapas at Pepe y Pepa, or at Pimpi, or 100 Montaditos (but there really are loads of places). Then it's lovely to walk through the centre... and then at a certain time everyone goes to Shamrock where you can have a drink with lots of people and where all the Erasmus students in the area go.

Now day by day. On Monday go to Sala Gold for the love party. Tuesday Opium for the arabic banbilon night. Wednesday Sala Wengé for the famous themed party. On Thursday there are a few choices... Velvet, Alcalá, Puro Teatro, etc... Friday Sala Moliere. Saturday Sala Epoca, Orisha's, Reinas, Liceo or Andén (the most beautiful club in Malaga). Sunday ends the week wonderfully with the Habana night at Sala Gold. Anyway I'd say there's lots of fun places to go...

And cultural places to visit?

There are various museums, the main one is the Picasso one. The castle, the Roman theatre, the alcazabilla, the arena, the cathedral, the many squares...

What advice would you give to future students going to Malaga?

Disfrutad, disfrutad, disfrutad de mi Málaga!