Erasmus Experience in Porto, Portugal by Rocio

Why did you choose to go to Porto, Portugal?

I choose to go to Porto to learn a new language.

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How long did the scholarship last? How much money did you receive to help you with living costs?

It lasts for 5 months if you are staying for a semester, and 8 months if you are staying for a year. You receive a first payment of 70 per cent of the grant and a second payment with the remaining amount when you go back to your home university. Depending on the group that your host university country is in, you will receive more money. Portugal is in group 2, so you get 250 euros a month, or 300 euros if you have the MEC grant (from the Ministry of Education and Culture).

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What is the student lifestyle like in Porto?

In Porto there is a really good student atmosphere, seeing as there are lots of Erasmus students and also because there are other universities in the surrounding areas.

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

Yes, I would recommend the city because it is welcoming and accessible. I would recommend the university for the treatment and help that I received when I needed it, aside from what I learnt there.

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What is the food like there?

I haven't been able to enjoy it that much and it didn't really appeal to me.

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Was it difficult to find accommodation in Porto?

No, I got in contact with two girls that went there too, and we organised everything before we got there.

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How much does it cost to live in Porto?

You can live well off of 300 euros a month (excluding accommodation and costs).

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

You can learn the language well if you really want to. For a small stay here people don't learn it, as most people understand Spanish.

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

In my case, it was by plane with Ryanair.

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

The Galerias de Paris area, you'll find lots of different places to go out partying. But, for sure, I'd recommend More Club.

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And to eat in Porto? What are some of your favourite places to go?

La Real burger restaurant (really tasty and affordable) and Bacalhau (a bit expensive but really nice).

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Palacio de Cristal

Do you have any advice for students coming to Porto in the future?

To enjoy the experience in every way possible, right from the beginning, because the time passes really quickly.