Erasmus Experience in Merano, Italy by Elisabeth

Why did you choose to go to Merano, Italy?

Because it is a beautiful city! It combines the snow-covered mountain peaks known of the north with the palm and pine trees known from the south. I have discovered that also the people are very friendy (that's my experience, they told me people from here aren't like that, ...), be it people you meet while going for a walk, people at work, people in the supermarket ...

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

Two months. I receive money from two different organizations and get 800 + 1060€ for these two months.

What is the student lifestyle like in Merano?

There is no university, so there is not the classic student lifestyle. Also I am here during the Covid-19-pandemic, so there shouldn't be any social life at all.

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

I defenitely recommand the city, even if many people say it is a city for old people. But its landscape is just breathtaking, the flowers in the city are fantastic and you have italian flair, but german structure (not everywhere, but in some places). I did an internship here, there is no university.

What is the food like?

Restaurants are closed due to the pandemic, but I've just eaten delicious Bruschette which we have ordered home; you can count on italian classics ;)

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Merano?

It cost time, but I didn't pay for an organization. My mentor of my internship helped me to find a place to live, primarly by posting it in facebook groups.

How much does it cost to live in Merano?

It depends, it can cost quite a lot. There are students' homes (not for university students, but for secondary school students) which cost 300€/month. Shared flats are hard to find but cost between 350€ and 500€ I would say. If you want a single flat it is about 500-750€.

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

Nearly everyone speaks Italian and German, I guess some do speak English, but it is easier if you know at least one of those two languages a bit.

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

By car, but I went by train.

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

In case anything will open before I leave I'll let you know ;)