Jesus' Erasmus Experience in Manchester, United Kingdom
Why did you choose to go to Manchester, United Kingdom?
I chose this city because I fell in love with it when I visited my friends who were on their Erasmus exchange here. Without a doubt, it's the best choice. I am so in love with Manchester that I come here once a year, hahaha.
How long is the grant for? How much money do you receive as support?
I was there for nine months, but I know other people who were here for four or five months. It depends on the agreement that the universities have with one another.
The money varies depending on which region you come from. My financial support was comprised of both money given to me by the European Union and my university. Mind you, they didn't give me the money month-to-month, rather giving me a lump sum of money in December, another in March, and the final one when I return (this is what happens in Madrid, anyway).
What is student life like in Manchester?
It's the best. I lived in the cornerstone of student neighbourhood, Fallowfield, which is where the biggest University of Manchester student residence is located, and it was so cool! The city has three universities and several colleges, which means that there are only young people in Manchester.
Would you recommend the city and the University of Manchester to other students?
I was at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), which isn't the main university in the city, but Manchester is great!
What is the food like in the UK?
If you want, you can eat well, and if you look hard enough, you can find competitive prices. We never felt like we were missing anything... until we had our Spanish food day.
Was it difficult to find accommodation in Manchester?
Not at all! There are lots of websites where you can search for accommodation and loads of adverts posted outside houses that are being rented.
How much does it cost to live in Manchester?
Not as much as we think. With 400€, we had the basic necessities. Public transport is cheap.
What is the language like? Did you go to any classes at the university?
No, I didn't attend any classes as I am an English Studies student. The only problem, as such, is that they have a different accent.
What is the cheapest way of getting to Manchester from your city?
Madrid has lost a lot of its direct flights to Manchester due to the rise in taxes, however I think there are still flights with Ryanair. I always fly to Liverpool and, from there, there is a bus that takes you directly from the airport to Manchester city centre.
Which places would you recommend for nightlife in Manchester?
In the city centre, there are loads:
- 5th Avenue
- The Fact
- Joshua
- Palace
- the Gay Village
Until very recently, there was also Sankeys, that, despite being a little claustrophobic, was the best nightclub there and it sounded really good.
And eating out in Manchester? Can you name your favourite places?
If you like Indian food, you should go to the Curry Mile, where there are loads of kebabs. There are some great bars and places to eat Spanish food. Enjoy trying the menu at Pizza Hut and the pizzas at Dominos. Also, visit Chinatown for some authentic cuisine.
And cultural hotspots?
Manchester has several great museums and two fantastic football stadiums. Don't miss out on going to the Trafford Centre, a huge shopping centre that is decorated as if it were the Titanic. I loved walking around there.
Any advice you want to give to future students in Manchester?
Enjoy yourself and have the best time!
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