Erasmus Experience in Montpellier, France by Aida

Why did you choose to go to Montpellier, France?

In the beginning, I was kind of forced to go there by the options I had for getting valid credits for my subjects, but when I found out a bit more about it, I was convinced: a city that is almost entirely for students.

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How long was the scholarship? How much financial aid did you receive?

After the Erasmus reform, I couldn't go for the whole year so I went for the second semester: from January to June. I didn't get a grant from the Ministry, so all I had was the European grant of €1, 500. I also applied for the CAF grant for my accommodation, so I got a bit of a discount on my monthly rent.

What is the student lifestyle like in Montpellier?

It's omnipresent. As students, we are the majority so wherever you go, you'll see students. There are a lot of people on Erasmus, but there are students from other parts of France who study here, too.

Would you recommend the city and the university of Montpellier to other students?

As a city to spend your Erasmus in, to practice the language among other things, yes, but if you're looking to take advantage of the year for your studies, be careful. Erasmus students don't have an easier time, it's just that the classes are rubbish, so be sure to choose the right subject. Some are worth it, some are not.

What is the food like there?

Expensive. So I haven't really tried much. But for low cost food, I recommend paninis, savoury and sweet crepes, galettes and American food.

Did you find it difficult to get accommodation in Montpellier?

In my case, the room they gave me was the cheapest option (meaning without my own bathroom or shower unfortunately) and it was €176 a month. The transport pass is €28 a month, but you could just get yourself a bike. A mobile phone contract can be as little as €2 a month with Free Mobile and food is around €20-25 a week. Then there's the nights out, eating out and shopping, the cost of which all depends on where you go.

How did you get on with the language? Did you go to any courses at the university?

They prepared French course for us, it was divided by level, which was determined by a test we took on arrival. It cost €120 and actually I was a bit disappointed by it. It's more like a course you can take in Spain, it didn't improve my fluency or teach me anything new, I got that from talking with the people here.

What is the most economical way to get to Monpellier from your home city?

You have two options, depending on how far in advance you're going to buy: you can either take the direct train from Madrid, which can cost about €89 or you can fly to Marseille and, from there, take a train to Montpellier.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Montpellier?

The Australian Bar (Place de L'Europe) and the Panamá Café without doubt. Cargo and Circus aren't bad either. Rockstore is good, too, but you have to pay to get in. The rest are free (for the boys as well as the girls).

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And to eat in Montpellier? Where are your favourite places to go?

If you want to try good crêpes, go to la Crêperie de la Comédie.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Place de la Comédie (the first time you see it should be at night time), la Promenade du Peyrou, Musée Fabré and the streets around la Place St Roch.