Erasmus Experience in Paris, France by LIZA

Why did you choose to go to Paris, France?

Because, and it's something i still believe, there is no other city that makes you even breathe art as Paris.

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

Mine lasted for 3 months.But i know that you can choose 6 months or 1year. Maybe even more. I received almost 1000euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Paris?

I think that for those who want to have fun there is the right atmosphere to do it. Friendly mood and cooperative behaviour. Make friends, you will be able to do it. They support eachother.

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

The city Absolutely!!!!!!!!! The University wasn't anything special (i refer to the lessons and the level, except some of them). I went to Paris8.

What is the food like?

I'm sure you will find some very nice tastes. Baquettes, camembert, croissants, quiche lorraine etc.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Paris?

Renting a house was very expensive. The first month i stayed in a house far from the center, shared with other students. Then i was accepted in Cite Universitaire. The room cost was 330euros and 450 as a garantee. It was the less expensive and with a great enviroment.

How much does it cost to live in Paris?

Almost 2000 for 3months but i returned without anything even if i didnt spend money in shopping. It's better to have more. I wasnt prepared.

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

The language is easy and very beautiful! I'm sure there must be language courses available but i didnt follow any. Dont think about it. Try to have few lessons and then... the need to communicate will help you. Everybody will speak in French, especially teachers and they wont let you even to be helped by any other student who could translate for you. I think that what they do is great. You will speak in any case.

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

Plain.

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

I'm not a very "open" person so i cant say i have experience on this, i went 2 times to a night club.
Go to Marais and Bastille.
For sure night life in Paris is wonderful. Day or night are great!

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

I didnt go to a restaurant worth to mention. i was not interested.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Chatelet musical theatre (Opera), you can find tickets for 10euros if you go early. Between the metro stop "Saint Sebastian Froissard" and "Rambuteau" (behind Pompidou) there are many galleries. Monmartre and all the rest. It wont be difficult to find...

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

Try to stay longer than me and even find a part time job. It will help a lot to live it and feel a part, a "citizen" not a turist. If you smoke take cigarettes with you, there are very expensive, and dont smoke to student areas because everybody will ask you for a cigarette. For sure its a chance to stop it. Make some friends so you can enjoy Paris at night otherwise it's a bit dangerous to be alone at night. Also know that the cost to get a transport card is 90euros and then every month i think it was 60. It depends on the zone of Paris you stay, if its far from the center or not. LIVE IT LIVE IT LIVE IT!!!!!!!!!! Keep a diary! I really miss it. Wish you the best!!! :-)