Erasmus Experience in Nicosia, Cyprus by Hagop

Why did you choose to go to Nicosia, Cyprus?

I went there on a Erasmus program, which lasted for 6 months, from November 2011 until February 2012. I went to study at Frederick University of Nicosia.

Source

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

I lived there six month with the monthly EU support as Erasmus student and I had financial support from the Finnish government. As Erasmus student, I didn't need to pay for the semester fees for Frederick University, although normally it costs around 800-900 a month. For monthly living, I survived with about 500 euros including rent and sightseeing tour and etc...

What is the student lifestyle like in Nicosia?

Studying in Frederick University was wonderful! I recommend to study there. They have also sport activities which I really recommend to take part in.

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

Absolutely!

What is the food like?

The food was tasteful in Mediterranean style. What else can you expect from that! Everything that you eat there, especially the local food in Cyprus was really delicious.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Nicosia?

Well, you must be active in asking and searching. You might find good or so-so apartments to live in Nicosia. There are so-called agencies who can find you an apartment, but I personally haven't try it.

How much does it cost to live in Nicosia?

For me, living in Finland, Cyprus was cheaper country. Cyprus is even cheaper than Greece itself. I was even surprised to find out that prices in a touristic and beach city like Pafos was cheaper than in Nicosia!

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

The official language of Frederick university is English, meaning that the teachers have to teach the lessons in English although they speak more or less Greek with their students. But with English you can survive in Nicosia and everywhere in Cyprus, except the occupied "Northern Cyprus", where people speak Turkish and their English talent is not that good enough.

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

Cyprus is an island, so you have to reach there by plane. Some go to Nicosia by traveling to the occupied Northern Cyprus and then they entered Cyprus, but you must ask the embassy of Cyprus whether it is ok for other citizens than EU to enter without a visa. Cyprus is a Schengen country by the way.

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

There many places to go out on a night in Nicosia. Best way is to ask other Erasmus students, Cypriot student and other foreigner who in live there. They can advise you where to go.

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

All local restaurants are good. Ask the Cypriots, they can tell where to eat and they might even take you there. Just be aware of the prices and the taxes!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Nicosia itself is a historical city. So, go to the tourist info and they will tell you more. Are even different free sightseeing tours organized by the tourist info officials. You must ask them when the tours start.

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

Meet with the locals! Discuss with them and you will understand more about Cyprus and its history. Don't just go there to have intercultural sex experiences! I hope you enjoy your time there!

Source