Erasmus Experience in Porto, Portugal by Hanka

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Why did you choose to go to Porto, Portugal?

I've never been to Portugal, even though I know almost all of Europe, I wanted to visit this country. I am a resident of a Central European country without access to the sea. Therefore I looked for an internship at a university in a city by the sea. University of Porto seemed to be a good choice.

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

2 months. My university provides 500-600 euros per month for traineeship.

What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

I don't know, I'm not in touch with other students. I love peace and solitude.

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

Absolutely yes. People there seem very helpful and welcoming.

What is the food like?

I'm cooking myself, I'm used to lots of vegetables, which is not a problem here. I am also excited about the great offer of fresh sea fish, which we don't have in Czech.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Porto?

I found a lodging of room in an apartment where another student lives in addition to the owner of the apartment. I found accommodation on Erasmusu. University campous and all student residences were full and communication with their offices was very lengthy.

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How much does it cost to live in Porto?

My accommodation costs 330 euros per month, unfortunately I have been here since mid-April and I will finish in mid-June, so technically 2 months, but I have to pay 3 months rent.

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

I speak an average English, I think only elderly people don´t understand. I don´t attend language courses. But the Portuguese tongue likes me, it fizzes like their ocean.

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

The most economical would be a bus, but I used a plane from Prague to Porto, a return ticket with an additional luggage cost about 450 euros.

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

I don't know, I walk a lot during the day so I sleep at night.

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

I cook myself, restaurants don´t interest me even in my country.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are several pretty buildings and churches in the center, I was looking forward to St. Ildefonso's church, but it wasn't nothing much. Much nicer was the nearby blue bell tower on the rua Santa Catarina. Frankly, for me, the view on the ocean is the most beautiful enjoyment that never gets tired. This is the site I love most in this city.

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

If you are traveling in April, do not forget your umbrella.