Erasmus Experience in Málaga, Spain by Maryama

Why did you choose to go to Málaga, Spain?

I chose the University of Malaga because I was very interested in the Spanish culture, particularly Andalusian architecture and history. Moreover, I also wanted to improve my Spanish language skills.

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

My scholarship was for 6 months as my Erasmus Placement was just one semester. I received 400 euros per month which was more than sufficient enough.

Source

What is the student lifestyle like in Málaga?

The student lifestyle is great! Málaga is such a vibrant and active city hence making it a fun place to actually study in.

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

I would definitely recommend University of Málaga and, in fact, I have already recommended it.

What is the food like?

The cuisine is absolutely wonderful. There is a range of foods from all around the world in Málaga. However one must try traditional Andalusian food as it has Moorish and European origins making it a unique blend.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Málaga?

I had to contact various estate agents before I finally found an apartment which cost nothing apart from travel expenses. However, once I found a place that's when I had to pay for rent and commission fees.

How much does it cost to live in Málaga?

Living in Málaga cost me approx 350 euros a month if I exclude rent and bills and just go by travel and living expenses. However, it is not as expensive as other cities such as London or Paris.

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

The language is fairly easy to handle if you have a good sound knowledge of English. Reason being is that many of the words are very similar to English. I also studied Spanish in college so I already knew some Spanish.

There are language curses offered at the beginning of the semester before classes begin so one can get more acquainted with the language before school starts.

Source

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

Travelling to Málaga city is fairly easy. There are numerous low cost airlines that fly into Málaga on a daily basis and the airport is just a short train ride (15 minutes) away from the city center.

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

The Muelle Uno or various beaches are good places to go on a night out in Málaga as they are usually vibrant and there are many restaurants and clubs.

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

I would recommend local restaurants that serve traditional Andalusian dishes if you want to experience South Spain.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are many sites to visit. You can visit the Alcazaba palace in Málaga city centre. You also have Muelle Uno where you can take a walk or a boat ride. Also a city tour is good as you will see the bull ring, the Cathedral... Moreover, there are many more things to do, for example, dolphin and whale shows in the Mediterranean Sea and Morocco is only a boat ride away.

Source

Granada is just 1 hour drive away where you can visit the world famous Alhambra.

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Málaga?

Just enjoy your time there and try and experience Málaga as much as you can and most of all have fun!