My Erasmus Experience in Perugia, Italy. By Lucía.

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Why did you decide to go to Perugia, Italy?

I chose Perugia because it is one of the most affordable Italian cities, and therefore it is not difficult to live there.

How long did the grant last? How much money did you receive as help?

My grant lasted 5 months and I received 1, 250 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Perugia?

The atmosphere is very good. There are always parties organised by ESN, although the worst thing is that you always have to pay so much for them.

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

Yes! I would recommend it!

How is the food of the country?

It is really good, the typical "pasta and pizza" every day is true.

Was it hard to find accommodation in Perugia?

No it wasn't. I arrived in Perugia without any accommodation. I spent three days in a hostel and I found a house in one day.

How much does it cost to live in Perugia?

It doesn't cost a lot. Renting is cheap and so is the food as well. Maybe the thing that is a little more expensive is the going out clubbing, as you have to pay to go to the big parties, and the ones you don't pay for don't last very long.

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And how is your language? Did you go to any courses at the university?

The language is quite good. Before coming, I went to an Italian course for a month. When I arrived here I took another one for another month. It isn't difficult to learn Italian. I live with two Italians and it is true that I have learnt more, for this reason I'd recommend to always live with Italians.

What is the most affordable way to get to Perugia from your city?

The most affordable way would definitely be by aeroplane.

Where would you recommend going out in Perugia?

I would recommend the parties that ESN organise, but you always have to pay 10 or 15 euros on Saturdays. I know that this isn't possible for many people, so it is better to drink at home with friends, and then go out to bars where you don't have to pay.

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And to eat in Perugia? Can you tell us your favourite places?

To eat in Perugia I'd recommend "La Botte", which is a pizzeria located in the centre of town and they sell pizzas for 3, 50 euros (the whole thing). There are also other pizza joints throughout the centre for very affordable prices. I wouldn't recommend going to the kebab shops that are just next to the 4th November plaza, as I have eaten here 3 times and each of those 3 times I have been ill. Furthermore, the owners make obscene gestures sometimes.

And for a cultural visit?

The look-out points are very beautiful. The buildings themselves as well, as they are from the old town.

Do you have any advice for future students coming to Perugia?

The advice I'd give you is that you should enjoy it as much as you possibly can. I went and I was scared of everything, of not meeting people, of not fitting in, of having a bad time away from my family. But it hasn't been like that at all, now I'm living the best moments of my life, I'm experiencing freedom first hand, meeting new people every day, and learning a language I love. I will end this post by saying that, for me, I would stay here for a whole year or two if I could.

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