Erasmus Experience in Nicosia, Cyprus by Karolina

Why did you choose to go to Nicosia, Cyprus?

It was far away from my country and the weather in Cyprus is always good. The history of Nicosia is also very interesting and it has impact on decision. As you know, it is the only one capital in the world which is divided by Green Line. It was interesting to understand how people are living in the country which is occupied.

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

Scholarship was around 400 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Nicosia?

There are two organizations which take care of students. One of them is Erasmus Society of Nicosia is more about parties and other fun activities like beer pong, karaoke, trip to club in Larnaca and so on. Another one is Erasmus Student Network (ESN), this one is more for students who do not like parties and prefer cultural events. They organize trips, film nights.

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

Of course! The life in Nicosia is very enjoyable, nice people around, everywhere you can speak in English, they will understand, citizens always want to help. Nicosia is not so big, so it is very comfortable to reach any place by walking or bus or taxi.

What is the food like?

Traditional Cypriot food has many similarities to Greek food just a bit more heavy. Cypriots like to have a lot of different meats in one plate. They have the best Cypriot/Greek gyros. Moussaka also is very tasty to try.

I expected that in Cyprus will be a lot of fruits on every corner but it was not. Even in small shops there are no fruits or vegetables, only in big ones.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Nicosia?

Yes, it was quite hard to find, we were searching till the last moment because prices of flats were the same like our scholarship and I did not want to spend everything on accommodation.

How much does it cost to live in Nicosia?

It is depend on person. I spend around 300 euros on accommodation and around 300 euros on food, bars, trips and so on. I tried visit every town in Cyprus and go to most of events.

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

I was studying at European University of Cyprus, they offer Greek language course only in autumn semester.

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

By plane because Cyprus is island, there are no other ways to come.

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

For sure. Nicosia has very nice clubs and nightlife. Usually in clubs they play English hits, recent songs but before closing they start playing Greek music in some clubs. There are different types of clubs for each person. You can find R&B music clubs, pops, trance music and so on. Clubs are very nicely decorated.

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

Very nice food at Piatsa Gourounaki. Probably the best in quality and price range in Nicosia.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are few museums but I would offer to go by bus to Paphos, Troodos mountains and to see culture by seeing it for real. For example, in Troodos mountains there are many monasteries which are rich in culture. In Paphos you can find many ancient buildings or parts of buildings.

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

I would advise to use everyday by going out and traveling around the Cyprus. Students do not have much money but you have to use your time by living in such a lovely country. Of course, do not hesitate to go to Turkish occupied Cyprus, they have many nice places as Kyrenia, Famagusta. Before going there, read something about those places history, it will be even more interesting to visit. Lastly, go on all trips with Erasmus Society of Nicosia, it will be your best memories and best parties ever, believe me.

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