Erasmus Experience in Ostrava, the Czech Republic by Concha

Why did you choose to go to Ostrava, the Czech Republic?

I had to put down a lot of destinations and I put down the Czech Republic, because I was attracted to the country. I also had a lot of good recommendations from other Erasmus students, since it's cheap to live there and it's very well connected with other destinations!

Source

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

My grant lasted 9 months. For those going for 6 months, you can extend your stay if you speak to your assigned tutor at the university!

What is the student lifestyle like in Ostrava?

I was there two years ago and it was great. Everyone lived in the Poruba residence, they all formed a great big family of people for loads of different countries (Czech, German, Finnish, Italian, Spanish, Slovak, Slovenian, Lithuanian, French, Portuguese, Korean... ).

Source

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

Absolutely, it was one of the best experiences I've ever had, even the best experience.

It's not a pretty city, it's very industrial, but a big draw is how much fun it is living in the residence, which has a football field, a tennis court, a gym, a cafeteria, bars and a club. And it has really good tram and bus connections, they're always on time!

What is the food like there?

The food is very delicious, you'll never go hungry, the restaurants have amazing dishes (meats in sauces with different kinds of bread (they're very traditional), soups, etc. ).

Source

How much does it cost to live in Ostrava?

The residence cost €80 a month, then there's the tram travel pass, which cost €40 for 6 months, food costs the same as in Spain and drinks are cheap! Only €2 or €3 each!

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

It's very, very difficult. I didn't go on any course, but I could communicate with with everyone in English perfectly fine!

Source

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

Travel to Prague, then get the train from there to Ostrava and then take a bus or a taxi to the residence! That's the best way to travel, or else go to Katowice and then get the train to Ostrava!

Where would you recommend to go on a night out on Ostrava?

Stodolni is a really well-known street, it's full of all different kinds of bars! You can get to the centre on the tram number 7 or 8!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Nothing really.

Source

Do you have any advice for students coming to Ostrava in the future?

It's a city that, despite not being the prettiest place in the world and is very industrial, has its own charm. The most important thing, and as they proved here, it's the people that make a city fun! Don't live in a flat, go for the residence. Don't worry about being far from the faculty, it takes 25 minutes to get to the centre by bus and it drops you at the door of the faculty and then back at on the doorstep of the residence. It's great. Have a great time!