Erasmus Experience in Perugia, Italy, by Hannah

Why did you choose to go to Perugia, Italy?

I wanted to study at a music conservatoire during my Erasmus year abroad. I'm doing a music degree and wanted to spend a year specialising in Performance. I also knew I didn't want to be in a big city. Perugia was perfect: a brilliant conservatoire, friendly and non competitive with wonderful flute teachers, and lovely city with such a picturesque landscape.

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

One academic year. I received a £ 4000 Erasmus grant to cover costs.

What is the student lifestyle like in Perugia?

It is not a party city, but I didn't want a party city. There are lots of lovely little bars, cafes and restaurants, all very reasonable priced. Perugia has a very chilled nightlife (except of course during the chocolate and jazz festivals; in October and July). Every evening between 6-8 there is 'apperitivo' served in all the bars-free food (really delicious finger food) when you buy a drink. There are lots of parks, benches and of course the church steps, all with lovely views and there is always someone you know to talk to.

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

I didn't study at the university, but I had friends at the Università per Stranieri (language university) who thought very highly of it. I would highly recommend the city. I loved it because it was calm, quiet and beautiful.

What is the food like?

Amazing! I gained a fair bit of weight over the year! The larger and cheaper supermarkets are a little out of the centre, but very easy to get to by bus or minimetro. There are 2 smaller supermarkets in town but the prices are a little higher. The food sold is all Italian, fresh and seasonal. There is also a Saturday market at the end of the minimetro for fresh fruit and veg.

There are lots of pizzerias about, perfect for lunch, it's all freshly made, only 1 euro or 1.50 for a slice, and it's delicious, far better than greggs! Another thing to try would be 'La Bottega' the famous sandwich shop in Piazza Morlacchi: all freshly made with local meats-mortadella is a must! Restaurants are all reasonably priced serving fresh authentic Italian food: pizza, pastas, meat, salads, risotto and gnocchi.

Of course you'll have to try the gelaterias too! 'Gambrini's' became my favourite and I was a daily visitor in the summer-they have every flavour under the sun, and each one really tastes like it says it will: the passion fruit or hazelnut are the best!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Perugia?

No, I looked online on 'Easystanza' and found a room from there.

How much does it cost to live in Perugia?

I paid 350 euros per month, all bills paid and a weekly cleaner. I spent about 20-30 euros a week on food, including eating out and drinks.

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

Yes. Book a course at the Università per Stranieri.

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

Flying with Ryanair from London Stanstead.

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

In the summer a nice bar, such as 'Il sole' which looks out across the mountains to Assisi, and then later on, get some drinks or ice cream from 'Snack Bar' or 'Gambrini's' and sit on the Duomo (church) steps.

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

• Ristorante del Sole, quite expensive but amazing.
• 'La Bottega'-the wine bar.
• 'Il bacio'.

Just wander around the streets, Perugia isn't very big, and see what you fancy-look at the specials boards-everything will taste fabulous!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Just wander around! Assisi, 20 min train ride away is a must!

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

Organise accommodation and a language course before you go. Be prepared for a super relaxed and beautiful year!

In the winter, don't forget your umbrella!