Erasmus Experience in Murcia, Spain by Elena

Why did you choose to go to Murcia, Spain?

Because of another culture, language, customs... I have always wanted to learn Spanish, visit Andalusia and Barcelona, try some of the Spanish dances (flamenco, salsa) and see how the people live in this country.

Source

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

I had scholarship for all the 10 months I was staying in Murcia, I cannot remember how much it was exactly, it was 4 years ago, but I think somewhere around 300 Euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Murcia?

Parties, parties, parties and international dinners! Going to language courses, to the beach, travelling.

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

Yes, if you want to go there, go there! It is a good experience.

What is the food like?

Tasty, different kinds of Tapas, paella, sangria, pestos, fishes, vegetable and fruit.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Murcia?

It took me about 3 days to find an accommodation. There was a lot of advertisement at the University, just call and come to see the flat. However, is good to know some Spanish already, when you want to do it like this. There was also a possibility, that the university helps to find you an accommodation, but you have to pay for it, and you cannot change the place if you don´t like it.

How much does it cost to live in Murcia?

Depends on the cost of accommodation, and how often you go out to the parties, clubs, if you want to travel.... I have paid about 200 Euros for a room in 3 room flat, about 100 Euros for food, 50 Euros for salsa course per month. It is good to buy a bike there, then you don´t have to wait for buses (the waiting times are really bad in Murcia, however the campus is far away from the city, so you usually have to take the bus), and you can visit some further places around the city...

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

The language is easy, if you have already studied English, or another Roman language. There is a great 2-week course at the beginning of the semesters at the university, I really recommend it, but you have to subscribe a few months before the semester begin. (e. g. for September course you have to subscribe in June/July).

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

There were lots of flights to Alicante (about 60km from Murcia), e. g. with Ryanair, but it was 4 years ago, I don´t know how it is now.

Would you recommend to go on a night out in Murcia?

Yes, lots of students did it, the town has a rich night life, and I think it is quite safe.

Source

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

I have already forgotten the names, but you can find some good tapas bars or restaurants in the centre of the town, usually at the bigger squares.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Museums, fiestas parades, Carnival in Cartagena...

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

Check twice if the agreement you have made yesterday is still true, mainly if it is something important!