Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Ekaterini

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

Because i wanted to experience life in a big capital.

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

The scholarship was high but it wasn't enough. Paris accommodation is VERY expensive and difficult to find something.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

Being a student in Paris is very good as there are many options to spend your day or night. Also as it is a big city it has a lot of Erasmus students and you can make friendships with them and have a fantastic time as all Erasmus want to have fun. There are parties and trips organised for the Erasmus students in good prices and at nice places. You can plan trips on your own quite easy from Paris which is one of Europes biggest towns and capitals.

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

Yes i would recommend it. But the have to keep in mind the beauraucracy at the universities (and France in general) that can make things a bit difficult. Its a bit difficult also to make French friends (not Erasmus) at university but give it a try! Also it would be better to find an accommodation with other students but put limits from the very beggining!

What is the food like?

I like the crepes and the various types of cheeses. Vegedables have no taste and they are terrible. Also i'm not a fun of the french cuisine even though you can find also some good dishes.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

Yes. It paid a website. Also the rent was VERY high and the room was not what i expected for the many i waw paying.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

Accommodation its very expensive, but at supermarkets the prices are ok. There can be expensive restaurants bars and clubs but you can also find cheap ones, with reasonable prices.

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

Yes at the university there languages courses for begginers and also for more advanced. French language is not so difficult, in comparison to other european languages, but you should pur an effort. Especially for the pronunciation.

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

I live in an island, so airplane.

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

You can find a lot of places at "Grand Boulevards", "Chatelet", " Champs Elysées", "Bastille" "montparnasse"

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

At "saint- Michel" place there are many restaurants also at rue Mouffetard.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Cathedral of "Notre Dame" de Paris, Montmartre, Louvre, Versailles, Eiffel tower, Arc de Triomphe, Centre Pompidou, Invalides, Canal Saint Martin, Place de Vosges, La Défense, Park Bauttes Chaumont, Parc Floral de Paris, Tuileries, Disneyland, Asterix, Opera

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Paris?

There is always something to do so dont waste your time and visit as many things as you can!