Erasmus Experience in Murcia, Spain

Why did you choose to go to Murcia, Spain?

I wanted to study abroad for an entire school year, and Murcia was the only option in Spain that allowed for that.

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

I was there for 9 months. I did not receive any money to help with costs.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Murcia?

There are plenty of bars and clubs to go to in the city, especially near campus. The campus is not an especially beautiful one, and one of the campuses is very far away (an hour on the bus because of traffic). But the university allowed for plenty of free time to go to parties and spend time with friends.

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

The city is great for students who enjoy going to a lot of parties, but there is not much to do during the day other than shop and eat. If a student is okay with this, then I would recommend Murcia.

What is the food like?

Most of the restaurants serve tapas and traditional Spanish food. There is no international food beyond some Chinese restaurants and various American fast food chains. There are lots of options for Spanish food.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Murcia?

My organization helped to find my accommodation. I paid rent and utilities every month.

How much does it cost to live in Murcia?

I don't remember. Rent was not very expensive. I cooked for myself most of the time, and so saved money that way. I had plenty of money to travel on weekends and holidays.

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

My entire time there I had difficulty understanding the locals. The local dialect is sloppy, and they don't tend to slow down for foreigners. I'm not sure if language courses are available at the University because I never took any. However, it's easy to find language partners.

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

The only way for me to travel there is by major airline. I live in the United States.

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

A bar called Revolver - it has big tables and live music. It's great for talking with friends.

El Bosque Animado was my favorite bar. It had a cool, dark interior and a great beer selection. Also quiet enough to talk with friends, and outdoor seating in a plaza.

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

I don't remember any in particular.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

South of the city is a cathedral on a mountain. A bus goes there, but I lived close enough to take a long hike. The main cathedral in the center of the city is also cool to see.

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

I had a difficult time there because I am not the kind of student who likes to go to dance clubs until 8am and get wasted. I often felt isolated from everyone else, including the locals. My best advice is to start making friends immediately, especially friends who enjoy the same things as you do.