Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Alex

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

It is an iconic city with dozens of monuments that are famous worldwide. As a hub of art and culture, the opportunity to live here was one I had to take in order to experience life in one of the most important cities throughout the world and history.

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

My allotted time in Paris is 5 months. I receive approximately 1100€ per month in order to live, but this covers my 700€ rental of a studio in central Paris and the high prices of local supermarkets for food.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

There are many bars with affordable drinks prices, especially if you seek out happy hours, such as in Châtelet, Le Marais and République. As a student, you also receive many discounts on transport, entry to theatres, art galleries and museums, which can often be free. The Erasmus student network is large and very active, organising regular events.

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

Paris is a massive city, and you can often feel anonymous walking along its streets. The administration and organisation of the universities is notoriously bad, particularly for foreign students. However, no problem has been impossible and the experience of living in the city has been incredible. If you enjoy challenges and making the most of the opportunities that are presented to you, then I absolutely recommend studying in Paris.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

I paid for the premium service of Appartager for one week in order to find a place quickly. I could then message many more people and organise lots of visits in a short space of time.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

It costs me 1100€ per month. 700€ for rent, 10€ for phone contract, 75€ for transport pass and the rest for groceries and socialising. It is not cheap and I had to find a job in order to pay for things.

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

At my university (nanterre), there are language course available for all levels and many different languages are spoken within the city itself. Street signs are easy to understand.

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

The easiest way to travel to Paris from Liverpool is by plane, but this costs a lot when booking at short notice. Instead, I take the bus to London and then the train back to Liverpool, which takes over 12 hours but costs only £30 (35€).

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

Le Marais has lots of bars and clubs in a small area, while République and Oberkampf is popular among students. Bastille also has a street with lots of popular bars on it.

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

La Chaumière on île-saint-louis has a cheap set menu (formule) with good food in an amazing location.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

If you are interested in Asian art and civilisation, musée guimet is free for students and not too busy. The same goes for Musée Cernuschi and the Musée d'Art Moderne is also free for students with a good collection. 38riv is a small but very cool jazz club and students have a discount on Friday night performances.