Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by Kristina

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

I always wanted to learn French to be able to work for the EU insitutions in Brussels.
I chose Paris because I had friends there who I believed could help me in the beginning.

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

I had to find an internship for minimum of three months. I did not get any scholarship therefore I had to ask my parents for help.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

I had a chance to meet other students at Cité Universitaire and I found Paris student community very lively, friendly and positive.

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

I did not study at the university in Paris but the education level is quite high in this city. People tend to be very competent and experienced when graduating universities and they seem to study very hard and long hours.

What is the food like?

The food in Paris is great. Apart from wide variety, you get good quality. Additionally, it is very healthy and fresh.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

It is extremely hard to find accommodation in Paris. It took me one month to find a room in a shared flat. Accommodation is very expensive and tend to be very small

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

1 000 EUR a month is minimum for living in Paris

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

I took French lessons at the private language school that cost almost 2 000 EUR per trimestre. I know you can also get languages classes sponsored by the state but make sure you find out about it beforehand because the application process is held only twice a year.

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

I travelled by plane

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

Because of long distances and limited number of taxis in the city, I would reccommend to go to private house parties or go to Odeon, St. Michel, Grands Boulevard, Chatelet or Bastille.

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

Go to any brasserie in Paris as they are usually all good. I would avoid St. Michel for eating out as it is very touristic. My favourite zone for good and not expensive restaurants is Alésia, Chatelet and Cour St-Emilion.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I loved going to theatres and cinemas in Paris. You can find discounts on any event happening in Paris here http://www.billetreduc.com/

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

Be ready to have enough time and money to find an accommodation in Paris
Be aware of pickpockets in public places, especially in train and under ground stations
Try to meet as many people as possible and bare in mind that Paris is the most romantic place to fall in love, got for it and good luck! ;)