Erasmus Experience in Ordu, Turkey by Ieva

Why did you choose to go to Ordu, Turkey?

My friend was there and she really liked it. So I said to myself "why not". And all in all, I always wanted to visit Turkey.

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

We got 900 euro for 2 month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ordu?

Students that i met they were studying or working almost all the time. They are focused in their studies very much.

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

Yes, of course. People are very nice, also the place, city is very beautiful, food is delicious.

What is the food like?

Perfect! Almost every day we eated in restaurants because in Turkey its very cheap and very delicious also you get a lot. Also, my favorite sweet is baklava.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Ordu?

One of my friend from Ordu helped us to find the place for living. We lived in the dormitory near to our hospital where we worked. For 1 person it was 75 euro per month.

How much does it cost to live in Ordu?

We got 900 euro for 2 month. But it was enough. We could travel, eat in restaurants. And i came back home with little money left.

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

Turkish language is not hard for me. I learnd a lot of words from my new friends and just by myself.
I dont know about the courses.

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

By plane its the easiest. Bur we choose to travel cheaper. By plane to Georgia and then from Georgia by bus to Ordu. It was a long trip haha

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

Boztepe, to see night Ordu from the mountain. Restaurants, walk by the sea, the beach, night club, bars

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

Aktaşlar (our first restaurant we visited in Ordu with friends. Their "lahmancun" are amazing, and you always get a free tea). Also Hüner, Tomur restaurants.

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

Dont be afraid. Everyone are very helpful. But know that people in Ordu dont speak enlish good or they even dont speak at all. My advice would be, learn as many words and phrases in turkish before you go there. Also, they love it when you start talking turkish.