Erasmus Experience in Orleans, France by Magda

Why did you choose to go to Orleans, France?

I wanted to go to France and this is one of the univeristies which has a cooperation with my home university.

What is the student lifestyle like in Orleans?

It depends if you live on the campus or in the city. I have lived in a students residence in downtown Orleans and I really enjoyed. I think I made more French friends than the Erasmus students who lived on the Campus where a lot of international students live.

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

Yes, it's a small but very beautiful city and I have sepnt a very good time there. The connection to Paris is perfect if you're longing for some big city life.

What is the food like?

Good!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Orleans?

No. I applied to the students residency before coming, in the preparation process of the French immatriculation. Everything went well and I really liked the place.

How much does it cost to live in Orleans?

Things are a little bit more expensive than in Germany.

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

I finally didn't participate in any language courses so I don't know.

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

I went there from Cologne in Germany by train, which has been a very convenient trip (through Paris). I think it's better than flying, since moving to somewhere for a whole semester you might want to bring more luggage.

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

Rue de Bourgogne.

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

There are some nice places on rue de Bourgogne aswell.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The cathedral, the castles at the Loire river. Orleans is situated very centrally so you can go almost everywhere from there. And Paris is only a 40 minutes trip by train away.

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

Mix up with the French and get to know the beautiful countryside of Orleans!