Erasmus Experience in Montpellier, France by Antoine

Why did you choose to go to Montpellier, France?

I've chosen Montpellier due to many stories and several opinions saying that this place is the best for an unforgettable Erasmus experience. I have to admit I can't deny it. My stay in Montpellier was the craziest and most awesome adventure I ever had. Beside the fact that this city is great, you enjoy the warm and Southern climate, while learning the French language between a population full of students.

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

Generally speaking, you're provided with a one-year scholarship. I only studied for about 6 months in Montpellier and received an average amount of more or less 1300 euros. Beside this financial support, you can also apply for an additional amount that is being supported by a French organisation, called the CAF. Depending on your housing costs, you can hereby get an additional amount of more or less 170 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Montpellier?

Montpellier is practically ruled by students. It is extremely international and during the academic year the city is constantly organising events such as wine festivals, Christmas markets and many other stuff. You have plenty of choices between open air clubs, bars, restaurants, name it up! But what I extremely preferred were the many house-warmings organised by Erasmus students. These ones always stay the best! I think Montpellier is number 1 if you're looking for a student lifestyle.

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

The city is very well organised and cosy. The public transport can take you everywhere in no time. The train station is situated in the centre and offers many connections to all cities in France. During the weekend I could, for example, easily travel to Lyon, Aix en Provence, Marseilles among many other destinations. There are also rent-a-car provided and so on. There are all the options available. Beside this fact, Montpellier is really famous for its Medicine Universities. I would definitely recommend students with this degree to study overhere. Idem for economical students; there are several Business schools that are recognized worldwide.

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What is the food like?

The supermarkets are good and basic as I know them in Belgium. The restaurants are extremely good! And the local markets that are situated on 'Place jean jaurés' (or something like that) have the best quality products ever. You can take my advice on this. The local bakeries totally dominate mine in Belgium and that's a lot. So generally, you'll enjoy the food.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Montpellier?

You can easily find apartments. But I recommend to book yours in advance because there are a lot of students coming over to this place. So it can drag you in a competition of finding a place. I found mine by using social network sites, it is always interesting connecting with other international students in advance. It gives you the possibility to have a bigger place for a lower price.

How much does it cost to live in Montpellier?

Depending on your own expenses, Montpellier can either be an expensive experience or a cheap one. Once you are integrated, you'll find ways to safe costs.

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

For the ones that have difficulties speaking French they can always follow an intensive course. These are usually free and offered by your own university. I think the best way by learning this language is just by talking with local people though.

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

The best way of saving costs is by taking a plane to Montpellier. Usually I travelled by train because of all the stuff I carried, but both options are good.

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

Definitely clubs as Cargo and Panama. On Mondays: Australian bar. This one opens around 9pm and is the perfect warm up to start your evening. Besides that you should definitely go to the open air clubs but I forget the names at this moment. Just ask locals. If you like rum etc, go to Barbarousse and beside that it's up to you! There is lot to do.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Montpellier?

If you go to Place Jean Jaurés, you'll find a lot of nice restaurants, especially in the side Streets. Definitely try to discover those sides!

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Enjoy Montpellier by walking in all the small side Streets, they are really cosy and it will bring you to all nice places that this city has to offer.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Montpellier in the future?

When entering Montpellier, settle yourself, try to fix all administrative burdens first and enjoy, discover as much as you can, if possible in and around this city.