Erasmus Experience in Porto, Portugal by Paulius

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Why did you choose to go to Porto, Portugal?

The main reasons why I chose to go to Portugal probably was weather, affordable prices and fact, that I never lived next to the Ocean before. I must mention though, that the weather is kinda rainy and I didn't expect that (first two weeks when I arrived here, it was raining for two straight weeks non-stop).

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

My scholarship length is one semester and I receive 360eu/month.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

Student lifestyle in Porto is extremely active. If you really have enough energy, you can find a party everyday. If you get tired of clubs, students love to socialize here. For example going out to specific places where hundreds of students from various countries comes and simply talks. They always tries to find some new friends and have fun.

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

I would definitely recommend city to other students. Porto is perfect city for student life. Also it is very beautiful and there is always something to do.

What is the food like?

It really depends on what you prefer. Of course food in restaurants is really delicious and not that expensive. On the other hand I kinda had to get use to food that they sell in shops. Since I am from Lithuania I really miss things like good sour cream, curds or rye bread. Of course you can find those things in very specific shops (like Russian shop), but here its kinda expensive for a student. Again, it really depends where are you from, this is very specific opinions, probably if you are from western Europe, everything will be usual for you.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Porto?

Thankfully no. But I must mention it wasn't to easy. Even tho there is hundreds of advertisement of apartment rents, from many, many letters that I sent, only one answered, right before my flight to Porto. My suggestion would be to start searching for accommodation as early as possible.

How much does it cost to live in Porto?

Accommodation costs around 200 euros including bills. For food and a monthly metro ticket I spend around 100-150 euros a month.

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

As far as I know for those who has similarities in their native languages, like Spanish, Italian, Romanian it is easy to learn Portuguese. For others, its a bit harder. In some universities you can have courses for payment. Also in some universities there is an option to take Portuguese as a subject. In Portucalense University for example, you can go to Portuguese classes for free, without having it as a subject. It depends where are you going to study.

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

Flight is definitely the best option. You can always find some cheap tickets, and it requires least effort to travel.

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

There is a specific street of clubs and pubs. Also there is place called Adega, where hundreds of students from different country come every night and have a lot of fun.

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