Victor's Erasmus Experience in Maribor, Slovenia

Why did you choose to go to Maribor, Slovenia?

I chose Maribor because it is a city that is central in Europe which allows you to make trips and visit other countries which are only three hours away by car. These countries include Italy, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, Bosnia, Serbia, Kossovo, Albania, Romania, etc.

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

The scholarship lasts a maximum of 12 months. I received 70% of my total aid which was about €1, 500 and the other 30% I will receive in Spain.

What is the student lifestyle like in Maribor?

There is a good atmosphere in Maribor. In my first four months there were different people who showed me a lot and I lived with them - there were many adventures and madness.

The good thing about Maribor is that it is a city that wraps you up in it's magic and helps you adapt to its living environment.

There are many people from many places, from many countries. You know practically everything about them because you live with them, eat with them, practice sport with them, know their culture, you share moments, chats and drinks together every Tuesday or Wednesday, also on weekends, but Tuesdays and Wednesdays are better as that's when the Erasmus students go out.

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

I highly recommend it, as it has been one of the best years of my life.

What is the food like?

We usually eat very well and we have an advantage in Slovenia that other European countries do not have - the Slovenian state subsidises students with a coupon system which works through your mobile phone, so you can eat soup or salad or a starter and dessert for about 3 euros.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Maribor?

It's not hard to find it, just register on the Erasmus Maribor 2015/2016 page, ask your questions and people will answer you.

How much does it cost to live in Maribor?

My residence costs 550 euros for four months (you pay everything directly, which gets rid of any problems). I spend about 90 euros a month. If you want to shop, go to Hoffer, the cheapest supermarket, which is next to the disco KMS and the river.

You can live perfectly in Maribor on less than 100 euros a week, which includes paying for residence and other little bits you want.

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What about the language? Did you go to any course at the University?

Slovenian is a language which is impossible to learn in one year as it sounds like nothing you have ever heard, but you will learn some words that will save you from time to time in Maribor, as many people do not speak English - but don't worry you will understand each other.

What is the cheapest way to get to Maribor from your city?

From Córdoba: I took a Malaga-Venice flight, I hired a minibus (http://www.goopti.com)) that picked me up at the airport at the time I told it to and dropped me off at the Maribor bus station, but it can take you to your residence if you wish.

Which places would you recommend to party in Maribor?

Fire, KMS, Erasmus house parties, Plusminus, etc.

What about eating in Maribor? Can you name some of your favorite places?

Ancora, Astoria, Alf. There is also another one that is in a square, which sells green beer, you can also go to Europark, etc...

What cultural places would you recommend to visit?

It's a very cultural city, so I recommend visiting it. From a big red church, which I haven't visited yet, but I'll end up going at some point, to wine parties everywhere. The wine will come out of your ears, but you will really enjoy it.

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Any advice you want to give to future students in Maribor?

Really enjoy your stay here because it will be one of the best years of your life, you will meet many new people, you will open your mind and learn many things you didn't know before, you will improve your English, you will do many crazy things like jumping into the river after a party, and you won't stop laughing until you can't laugh anymore.

Don't look for trouble with Slovenians or with Maribor's ultras.

I have two months left in Maribor, so if you need something in particular do not hesitate to write to me.

Regards,

Victor Moreno