Erasmus Experience in Porto, Portugal by meryema

Why did you choose to go to Porto, Portugal?

I had friends who visited Porto and heard great things from them about the city, also the university where I studied had a good reputation and I knew it would be a plus for my education and curriculum. Surely wanted to swim in the Atlantic Ocean!

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

I applied for one semester, thus around 5 months I got around 1.500 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

There are lots of things to do, discover. Great cultural fusions from around the world.

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

I am in love with the city and I already recommend everyone I see, to travel there or if possible study. But I didn't do my erasmus at the University of Porto, it was ESAD in Matosinhos.

What is the food like?

I loved the Bacalhau a Bras! Great seafood!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Porto?

Yes, it cost me. Didn't understand the question completely.

How much does it cost to live in Porto?

Around 600 euros per month, in my case.

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

We had short introduction classes of 6 sessions at ESAD.

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

Find the cheap flight from Istanbul to any EU member state and from there take a ryanair flight to Porto. All the direct flights are very expensive from Turkey to Porto.

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

Hard Club, Plano B, Casa da Musica

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

http://oportocool.wordpress.com/category/01-eatin-cool/

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

http://oportocool.wordpress.com/category/14-urban-cool-tour/

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

I wish I could just replay the times which I had there, make the most of it!