Erasmus Experience in Nicosia, Cyprus by Jeska

Why did you choose to go to Nicosia, Cyprus?

I wanted a further destination and I was here mainly for an archaeological project.

Source

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

5 months/285 a month (From Belgium).

What is the student lifestyle like in Nicosia?

There are many different universities and there are many special deals for the Erasmus students. (mainly on parties, but also discount on the public traffic etc... ). There are several beer/wine tasting events and small, and music festivals.

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

I wasn't in the University of Nicosia. I do know they organize events for Erasmus students as well. The city is surely nice to live in. Great weather basicly the whole year round.

What is the food like?

Mediterranean cuisine, but certainly nice. Fruit and vegetables are a lot cheaper (not to say free, if you just take them from the trees). Make sure to try halloumi and of course Cypriot Meze. If you want to try a good coffee, take a Cypriot one.

Source

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Nicosia?

170/month for rent, everything included. If you take a good look, you could find something with everything included for 300/month max easily.

How much does it cost to live in Nicosia?

Rent is okay. Fruit and vegetables are a lot cheaper. Other food is a bit more expensive sometimes (depends of course on what you buy). Public transport is cheap for a student.

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

There are language courses. The only Greek words I know are bad ones. But there are some universities that offer their courses in English.

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

Ryanair to Paphos & then Shuttle bus to Nicosia (15 euro).

Intercity buses are the best option to go around in Cyprus.

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

Downtown Live, Moondog's events, Beer festival, Fly Away Festival, Ithaki.

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

Piatsa Gourounaki (You could eat for 5-7 euro each easily), Sushi La buffet for 10 euro at lunch or 15 for dinner, Akakiko (Sushi is expensive, but try the noodles/rice), Armenian place in the parallel street to Ledras.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Akropolis Park, The Cyprus Museum, Levantis Museum, Pierides Museum, Big Park of Athalassos.

Source

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

Take allergy pills with you. The difference in pollen is great, also because of the weather, bugs might bother you.