Erasmus Experience in México, D.F., Mexico by Amélie

Why did you choose to go to México, D.F., Mexico?

I chose to go to DF because I had heard only good things about the lifstyle, the people, the city and the country in general.

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

I am staying here for one year. I am currently living with 200 euros (4000 pesos) per month without the rent. The rent costs are approximately around 200/250 euros (4000/5000 pesos)per month. If you are looking for a house with a lot of international people, the rent costs would be higher (about 300/400 euros (6000/8000 pesos) per month)

What is the student lifestyle like in México, D.F.?

There are 4 main districts where you can go out with friends (bar, restaurant, nightclubs...): Roma Norte, Condesa, Polanco (more expensive) and Coyoácan (in the south part o the city).
It is quite cheap to eat (less than 5 euros (100 pesos) ) and to visit (for example museums are free for students everyday and free for everybody on Sundays.

Would you recommend the city and the University of México, D.F. to other students?

I strongly recommend to stay a semester or a year in México to study, because there are a lot of things to do, to learn, to discover.

What is the food like?

Very Spicy ! But if you hate spicy food that's easy to find "sin picante".

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in México, D.F.?

Not at all, a lot of agencies, organization put offers on Facebook. You can also rent an AirBnb or the first few days to take the time to visit the flats (Important to visit before renting).

How much does it cost to live in México, D.F.?

Really cheap. You can eat for less than 5 euros (100 pesos). A beer is about 2.5 euros for a 33cl, transports cost 5 pesos (0,20 euros)...

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

The Mexican Accent is the most neutrol Spanich accent so it is quite easy to understand when you have already studies a bit of spanish. Some words are very different from the Spanish language of Spain, but you will get used to very quickly!

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to México, D.F. from your city?

I am living in DF but their are a lot of buses which are coming from all cities of the country.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in México, D.F.?

In la Condesa. You'll can find bar and night clubs of all type of music (Raggaeton, Electro (Pata Negra) )

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in México, D.F.?

If you want to eat typical Mexican Food, I recommend Casa de Toño.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Anthropological Museum, Frida Kahlo Museum, Chapultepec Castel, Palacio de Bellas Artes...

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to México, D.F. in the future?

If you want to meet other exhange students from all parts of the world (especially from latinoamerica) I recommend to travel with Hang Out, an organization for exchange student.