Erasmus Experience in Perpignan, France by Hannah

Why did you choose to go to Perpignan, France?

I had the choice between Paris, Toulouse and Perpignan, and based on my research of existing student blogs, tourist guides etc, I chose Perpignan. This was also partly due to its proximity to Spain and the fact it was in a completely new area of France for me. Also, as I had already spent a year in Barcelona, I wanted a change from such a big city.

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

Scholarships vary every year, so best to check, and I do not 100% remember anyway! However, living in cheap uni campus digs, I had enough leftover for food, travel, entertainment etc. Perpignan is not expensive.

What is the student lifestyle like in Perpignan?

Great! It is a very small city, and the students know how to make the most of it. The university accommodation was very close knit, with daily get togethers and activities, and it is easy to get to know each other. Erasmus students are always very open and friendly, and if you make an effort with the language and show that you aren't a degenerate party animal then the locals warm to you too!

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

Yes! It is not the best university in France by any means, and the campus itself is pretty run down in places, with some questionable norms (using your phone in exams? ). The city, too, is not the most wonderfully modern and cannot be compared with megalopolises etc, but you really get to know it and it is great as a transport hub around the Pyrenees and to Spain and other parts of France. It will mean a lot to you in a short time!

What is the food like?

Mixed like anywhere! There are gastro-restaurants and local delicacies if you like, and normal French supermarkets and fast-food outlets too. Uni food is nothing to write home about but there are a good selection of baguettes and pastries etc throughout the day. The Christmas market is great!

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Perpignan?

To find it, no, to live in it, of course. But it was reeeally cheap, around €140pm if I remember correctly. Pretty basic - your room has a small bed, wardrobe, desk, fridge, sink and shelves. The "kitchens" are basically surfaces with a couple of hobs. Hot showers and working toilets. If you choose to live in an appartement it would be a bit pricier, but then of course you could live in the centre ville with flatmates. Pros and cons to both!

How much does it cost to live in Perpignan?

Can't say exactly, obviously it depends on what you do etc, but it is a pretty cheap city!

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

Colloquial French can be pretty intense, and the Perpignan accent was quite a strange one..! But it is amazing how much you can begin to understand if you make the effort. There is a (bi-)weekly Erasmus class for language purposes, but it is what you make it...not an intense language course by any means. Some may be available, though.

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

Er well that depends where you live.... There is a tiny airport in Perpignan, or Beziers. TGV from Paris/Barcelona. Wonderful driving scenery.

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

Well it is fairly limited but you must of course frequent Boca Boca, bar comedie (shot bar), any bars in la grande place, and also worth a bus trip to Canet Plage for Purple and other clubs!

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

Quick, for fast food goodness. Creperies, mussels and snails restaurants.. depends on what you like, best to wander everywhere possible!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

It is easy to "do" Perpignan as the main sites are au centre. You must definitely travel into the mountains though, around Languedoc Rousillon. Eg take le petit train jaune, Vernet les Bains, Ville Franche, Cannet (BEACH), Beziers, Nantes, Toulouse, Montpellier, Cabestany, Carcassonne, Argeles-sur-Mer, Collioure... go everywhere!

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

GO EVERYWHERE DO EVERYTHING ET PARLE AVEC UN ACCENT BIZARRE!