Erasmus Experience in Prague, Czech Republic by Morana

Why did you choose to go to Prague, Czech Republic?

I chose to go to Prague because I have never visited this famous European city and to have an opportunity to live in it is one you would be crazy to miss.

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

I got a 4 month scholarship (even tough I am here for 5 months) and I was receiving 410 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Prague?

Rich! You have everything you could ever imagine. The place is pretty cheap and the nightlife is non-stop but if you prefer something more relaxing you have various pubs.

During the year there are lots of events taking place, especially in the spring time - food festivals, markets and shows. Everyone can find something for themselves.

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

Of course. I like the atmosphere at the university and I think that the professors are really specialized in their areas. Above all, they are really friendly and open.

What is the food like?

For me, the cuisine is too heavy and too meaty but for someone else it might be perfect! In general it's meat, gravy and dumplings, variety of soups, goulash and sausages. As in every major city you can choose from different cuisines all around the city.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Prague?

It wasn't easy and I recommend that you start early. I found it last minute.

If you apply for halls of residence, there is no problem. This semester I heard that most of them are empty. The rooms are small and you share them so a lot of people in the end move out and live in a private flat.

How much does it cost to live in Prague?

With my rent and the food, I spend approx. 500 euros per month. To this I include the nightlife, cigarettes, drinks, sometimes restaurants etc. If you make an effort you can make it cheap and you can sometimes enjoy yourself a bit more.

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

The language courses are available but there's only a few of them and the interest is always big. You take an evaluation test (to determine a level, if you have one). The language is not that easy but it can be easier for students coming from Slavic countries.

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

From my city the best option to travel to Prague is by car or bus.

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

There are many options. You have Reduta - the jazz bar (you have lots of them but this one is the most famous but it tends to be expensive), Chapeau Rouge, Lucerna Music Bar, Palác Akropolis (for interesting artists) and pubs, pubs, pubs!

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

Akropolis (Žižkov) has nice food, and the prices are reasonable. Hany Bany in the centre is a pub with nice beer, food and people but it tends to be packed, especially in the evenings. If you like Asian food there is a nice place called My Wok on Náměstí Republiky. For local food go away from the centre - they overpriced it!

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

This question for a person staying here is impossible. Everything! I recommend the Kafka Museum, Divoká Šárka, Kutna Hora (day trip) and loads of parks that are a must see.

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

Come with a lot of energy. Prague is that kind of city. And travel, travel! it is cheap, some good sights are near and there is a lot to see in the Czech Republic itself, for example Český Krumlov and Šumava National Park.

Enjoy Prague!