Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Borbála

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

In high school I have took part in a change program in France, when we also visited Paris. Since that time I just wanted to get back there, because I loved the city and the feeling that oh, I'm in Paris.
My second reason was to refresh and use my french and get some international experience. I can't really explain it, if you once go to Paris, you will understand me!

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

I spent there a short semester, it was 3 months only. Paris is so expensive compared to prices in my country, Hungary. I have received about 700 euros for a month from different sources like erasmus bursary, family and others, This amount of money couldn't allowed me to spend to much except the most important things like my room, transportation, food and things like that.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

You can meet a lot of international students and take part in different programs for Erasmus students. I have met a lot of open minded person. It doesn't matter where are you from, you will find your place and your fellowship.

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

Of course. everybody should visit Paris. And as a student you will get many discounts while visiting the famous places of the city.

What is the food like?

Most of the days I had my lunch in a cheap restaurant at Cité International. I liked the food and the culture that they eat 'apéritif' first. You can find every kind of restaurants from Italian to Japanese. And you must try snails! :) It is very tasty and yummy with a fresh baguette.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

Yes, and it was a very hard work to find it. And DO NOT TRUST in every offer, because some of the are fake, and they just get your money before. Never pay before signing a contract!

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

It depends on your accomodation's cost which is usually very expensive. You can get a room about 400-500 euros or a very small studio from 700 euros. If you are lucky your school has some connections to student residences and it is not only you, who have to solve the accomodation problem like me. Beyond this I think you need at least 200-300 euros. The cheapest way if you cook for yourself because in supermarkets usually you will find friendly prices. Pubs and bars are also expensive, so it is better to catch happy hours when having parties.

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

It depends on the universitys, but you can also find language schools in the city where you can study french. Usually French people can't or don't want to speak English, which make some situations so difficult.

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

Of course the plane. It has took about two hours to get there, with car or bus it would be a one day long trip.

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

My favourite bar was O'sullivan at Grand Boulevard, where you can also find other bars with a lot of international student and student parties with happy hours! :) And my second recommendation would be the Cafe Oz network, which has more bars in different places.

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

The retaurant of Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris, It is cheap and enough good, you can get lunch or dinner from 3 euro 10 cents. Normal restaurants usually offer menus from 10 euros.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Just buy a travel book and visit everything! :) Don't forget the most famous places like Tour Eiffel, Notre Dame, Louvre, Sacre Coeur, Arc de Triomphe etc. also visit Versailles or Disney Land if you are interested in it.

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

Enjoy your time, visit all the famous places, take part is parties, try snails and take long walks all around the city! You will like it! :)