Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Havishma

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

I have choosen Paris because it was offering varied courses within the reasonable costs I was planning for.

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

I have not applied for any scholarship, hence I say no to this question.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

Students lifestyle is entirely different from the place I have come from. It was not quite suitable for me. So I rate it as 2/5.

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

I do recommend the University of Paris to other students but only and only if you are VERY GOOD at FRENCH. Life here is very difficult without that, not many career opportunities too.

What is the food like?

Its very costly to eat outside. We have some good supermarkets which offer cheaper groceries. I spend around 100+ euros every month on my food.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

Yes, Cost of living is very high in Paris. I had to spend 1000 euros on the first month of arrival as I could not find any cheaper in short span of time. Now my studio rent is 650 euros.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

1000 euros for an average monthly expenditure for a student.

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

I find it very difficult to learn. Not so curious to learn French, as I might be moving out of this country very soon.
Yes University does offer French courses, but coaching French and real life French seem very different to me, its very hard to catch their accent. Even if you attempt to speak what you have learnt, there are chance they may not understand you because of the peculiar accent they will be looking for.

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

Its not quite economical for me to travel to my city. It costs around 1350 for a round trip to India from Paris. But booking in advance may differ the price a bit.

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

There are lot of facebook groups to enjoy night life in Paris. Just enroll and you can meet lot of people and get to know many events as such.

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

I am a vegetarian, so Maoz is my favorite falafel store which is located in Saint-Michel Notre Dame. Its quite famous here. I also like to have the buffet at Flunch, it has multiple branches all over Paris.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I follow this website usually:
http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/may/06/top-10-art-culture-paris

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

Two things are very important in Paris.
1. Mandatory French( though many people say its ok without French, do not listen to them, its not true. Nothing goes here without knowing French)
2. Plan your finances very wisely.