Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Judith

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

Because I want to improve my French and Paris is the best city to do it. Also, I love Paris because is a very big city and there are a lot of places to visit and things to do.

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

I stay in Paris for 4 months and I receive 300 euros per month. Here, the amount of money that I receive is not enought at all.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

Paris is different to everywhere. You have a million of options everyday but the prices are high. You can't think about the tipical erasmus with party everyday, but I think this kind of erasmus experience is the best.

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

I recommend Paris but you must keep in mind that the living costs here are so high. I study here in the ISC, a business school, and I also recommend it. It is a great business school, with a lot of international students, many activities and the theachers are so good as well.

What is the food like?

The food here is very similar to the food of my country, but you must eat crepes, croissants and cheese. Food here is very tasty but specially them.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

Find accommodation in Paris is so difficult. It was a nightmare. I recommend you to start looking for a place to live 5 months before at least.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

I think around 1200 euros per month, living without luxuries. Paris is too expensive but when you live here for a month you know the cheapest places and it will help you.

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

In my university they offer to every international student an intensive course of French at the beginning of the semester.

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

For me, the plane. Also, there are buses and trains but it takes you a lot of time and it is more tiring.

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

On Wednesday, Cafe de Oz because there are international parties and you can meet a lot of people.
On Thursday, the best place is Mix because there are international parties.
On Friday, I prefer Duplex, it is a huge disco with many kinds of musics.

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

The creperie Genia is in the Latin Quartier and it is so cheap and amazing.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are a lot but the most important are: the Museum of Louvre, the Museum of Orsay, the Tour Eiffel, the Arc du Triomphe, Versailles, Fountainbleau, Disneyland...