ERASMUS PORI 23/24

Pori is a charming little industrial town that will shock you at first but by the end you won't want to leave. You have all the services you need to make your Erasmus stay unforgettable and, of course, a wide variety of things to do. If you are looking for a different experience and to get out of your comfort zone, this is the perfect destination for you.

WHAT TO DO THERE: 

What I loved most about this place is that it allows you to see how the panorama changes completely in just a few months and so, the same city but with different facets depending on the period of the year. In August/September it was lovely to go to Yyteri, a huge beach overlooking the Baltic Sea where you can play beach volleyball, barbecue, swim and enjoy with your new friends. October is the beginning of winter, and little by little the snow, the cold and the darkness will mark the change. It is incredible and unique and you will see that you will end up falling in love with these factors. But don't worry about the darkness, life goes on in Pori even though it's dark and you can go skating, play hockey, play lots of sports or cheer on the Porin Ässät at their games. By the way, the hockey games are a brutal experience and it's awesome to attend and share that moment with your exchange partners. 

ACCOMODATION: 

For accommodation, I would definitely recommend the Torget Aparthotel. Although it's a bit expensive, considering that we are in Finland, one of the places with the highest standard of living in the world, this residence is full of Erasmus students like you and therefore, you'll never be alone and you'll make lots of friends. My experience was definitely unique thanks to living in that residence, that's where I met people from all over the world. If you are looking for a single room (my case) with all facilities (private bathroom, kettle, microwave, mini fridge and TV) the price is 495€. On the other hand, if you share a room, the price is reduced to 250€ each. The aparthotel has two common areas (lounges), washing machine and dryer, two kitchens, where your nights will be unforgettable dining with people from different cultures and having a good time. 

SAMK (UNIVERSITY): 

I studied at SAMK, a truly impressive university both academically and technologically. It was a whole new world for me, which I fell in love with, it seems like another century ahead. At the university for only 20€ you can participate in all the sports activities and try new experiences. Also, the library is a super cool and quiet place to study and, if you want to be more chill, the pool area is perfect for you.  The university includes a supermarket, where you have some discount with your Finnish student card, for all your needs. The most important thing is to become a member of SAMMMAKO (student association), thanks to which your Erasmus will be a unique experience, including parties, student house (SAIKU), activities and, of course, travel.

FOOD: 

Finland is not very famous for gastronomy and shopping is quite expensive. What I recommend most is to take advantage of university restaurants, where you can eat for 2.95 euros, so you only have to buy and make dinner. I adapted very well to the university food and the Finnish schedules (11:30 lunch), but that is subjective.

PARTY: 

Although I am not a big party person and my motivation for going to Finland was not that of a crazy Eramsus, Pori has two main clubs Heidi's Beer Bar and The Irish Pub, very characteristic and with different music. One is more commercial and the other is local. Both are worth it and are held in most university events. On Wednesdays put on your college overalls (you'll see what they are and how many patches you'll have to sew) and go out to enjoy the atmosphere.

In conclusion, my experience was incredible and my English improved a lot. I was able to travel to incredible places and see breathtaking landscapes.In addition to meeting fantastic friends for life. I fell in love with it so much that I already want to do my internship in Finland again. Who knows what can happen to you?