Erasmus Experience in Murcia, Spain by Louise

Why did you choose to go to Murcia, Spain?

I chose Murcia, because of its location and I love to travel. Not only is the weather amazing, but beautiful sandy beaches are only an hour journey away by bus, even Alicante, one of the main tourist areas! And if you like to travel like a 'fiestera' then why not catch a boat from Alicante to Ibiza! When your not studying too hard, some of the best cities are close by to visit! Also, the tapas are delicious, my favorite were caballitos! I lived near the university and everything was minutes away, bars, restaurants, shopping, bar street etc... Very convenient, great atmosphere!

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

It's a school year, so September to June, 10 months. I got an erasmus grant of 1500 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Murcia?

Brilliant! Especially for Erasmus! You go to college, experience Spanish classes, go for tapas after with some friends, take a siesta, and then if your up for it a night out or fiesta! Very accomodating lifestyle!

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

Yes.

What is the food like?

Different to other European countries like Ireland or England, as it's healthier and more traditional... tapas, gazpacho, seafood the like! If your taking a trip to Murcia, leave your cravings for extreme fat foods at home! Although McDonald's and Burger King are around. As well as delicious Kebabs!

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Murcia?

Yes, my friends and I arrived to Murcia, stayed in a hostel for a week to look for accomodation, and unfortunately kept bumping into extremely costly businesses who offered housing. Like OPAU! Be careful because although you might find a nice apartment, it costs over 300 EURO! Extra expense thats not necessary, as rooms are available everywhere if you look in the University, there should be wall posts!

How much does it cost to live in Murcia?

Little! I got by with less than 200 for rent! 30 euro more or less for shopping per week! and I eat a lot! Seriosuly, on a night out to the bar street by the University, all you need is 2 euro going out haha! shots 'chupitos' are only 50c, and then there are cheap drink promotions for 1euro beers or sangria! before 11 o ' clock, free beers etc... I was living the life in Murcia! Cheaply!

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

I didn't take any language courses, but I done intercambios, and gave lesson's to a lovely man which also got me some extra money for shopping! His accent, as well as the murcianos, is very strong, and at first it is difficult to understand. But once you get used to the sounds, and the lack of 's', for example Adios - Adiooo.. you'll be fine! Plus, it makes your listening much better, and when you speak to spanish people with a much clearer accent e. g. Madrid, you'll have no problem understanding them!

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

I walked everywhere, or got the tram at gran plaza! Everything is nearby! And the bus station was 5 minutes from my house, so it was very handy!

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

The bar street by the Arts faculty!

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

Hmmm... well you'll find tapas bars everywhere!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Being in Murcia is a cultural experience!

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

Just have fun, and make the most of your time in Murcia, speak lots of Spanish and practice! Also, I'm a big sports person, so if your looking to play sports, try the University first, and ask your coaches about local teams. I played for a regional soccer team and I loved it! Plus, I made lot's of friends for life and without a doubt my spanish improved! Enjoy!