Erasmus Experience in Munich, Germany by Malo

Why did you choose to go to Munich, Germany?

First because of the level of the university, I wanted to attend some courses, I new some famous teachers who worked in it and I wanted to follow their teaching.

Source

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

The scholarship of my country is good, around 200 per month, but not at all enough to live in Munich of course.

What is the student lifestyle like in Munich?

I work a lot, so I might not have this typical "erasmus lifestyle" you're talking about. But there are a lot of parties for Erasmus and incoming students, lots of clubs and bars, lots of museums, parks and monuments, and so on. The tradition is really important, and as long as it is a lot about beer, it's a tradition that interests a lot the students, myself included.

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

The city is nice, really pleasant, not very exotic for a french guy but I would recommend it. About the university, it is a serious one. I had more fun in my architecture school in France, but this university is a good one, with good teachers and quite good rooms. And you can still easly have fun if you want.

What is the food like?

Good if you like potatoes and sausages. Very good if you like beer. But average you like good products. Good fruits and vegetables are hard to find for example.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Munich?

Yes, accomodations are harder to find than jobs in Munich apparently.

Start searching in advance, call the advertisers instead of sending them mails, because they never answer. It's easier if you speak german.

How much does it cost to live in Munich?

To, live in the center of Munich, it's between 700 and 1100 mounthly I guess, but it depends on the price of the rent, of your studies, and so on.

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

There are language courses in the university (the TUM), but a fiew places are available, so be prepared at the right moment to subscribe.

The problem is that in Munich in general, nearly everybody speaks english very well. Then it's not easy to practice your german, because when you have troubles with your german, they usually switch to english.

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

Plane. Maybe not easier, but cheaper and faster.

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

Arround Karlplatz (Stachus) and Hauptbanhof you will find a lot of clubs and bars.

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

The Augustiner Braükeller is probably one of the best places to eat some traditionnal meals with one or two "mass (1L)" of this lager beer.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Olympiapark of the architect Frei Otto is really impressive. The Biergarten are part of the cultural sites, it's a must to visit all of them during a year in Munich. The Erdinger Brewery is also worth a stop. The englisher Garten is a must as well, especially during summer aparently.