Erasmus Experience in Porto, Portugal by Pieter

Why did you choose to go to Porto, Portugal?

I had a couple of options to choose from, Porto was by far the best. I mean, sun, beach and a beautiful city, what more can you want. It has a big university with several faculties spread over the city, 30.000 students and a couple thousand exchange students. So i knew I would be good academically and party wise.

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

My home university at that time only allowed for an exchange of 3 months. I received 230€ each month, my room was 200€ (big room in the middle of the center) excluding expenses (40€)

What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

It was very relaxed. Plenty of libraries to study in. Beautiful garden of Palacio de Cristal to hang out at. There was always something to do. Occasionally the local ESN (which was awesome) had some event planned (always worth it). Other than that, every day of the week there was some place to party that would be very popular because of student discounts. I'm guessing I can still go back now and find where the party is during different times of the week.

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

Yes definitely.

What is the food like?

Different from the food i was used to, but good nonetheless. Meat is good everywhere in Portugal (so sorry vegetarians). Accompanied by usually 2 out of these 3 : potatoes, beans and rice. They sometimes put a fried egg on top of their steaks, a bit weird at first, but delicious after 2 or 3 times.

In the region of Oporto they have a special dish, the francesinha. Which is delicious, but very heavy. Inform yourself before trying one of these. Must have if you are visiting Portugal

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Porto?

It might be difficult to find accommodation prior to arrival. This could very well be a cultural thing. I suggest to come a couple of days early, book a youth hostel and go apartment/room hunting from there.

How much does it cost to live in Porto?

I paid 200€ without expenses, which were about 40€, for a room. The room was very big (5m*7m). I shared a bathroom and showers with the floor and a kitchen with the entinre house.

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

Already having learned French and English, Portuguese was quite understandable.

I suggest to everyone to try and learn the language (or at least the basics). A lot of exchange students will be from Brazil and it makes connecting with them a whole lot easier.

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

Airplane

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

Mondays at Ribeira (loosly translated: near the river)

Wednesdays somewhere on the square near Piolho

Thursday at More club

Friday's at '77' club

Plenty of ESN parties, check facebook and inform yourself.

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Porto?

Learn the language

Take up surfing courses!

Go for a winery tour at Gaia (accros the river)

and don't forget to have fun.