Erasmus Experience in Prague, the Czech Republic by Claudia

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

It's in the centre of Europe, so you can do a lot of travelling from it, it's cheap (not as cheap as Poland, but it's the most civilised country in Eastern Europe to put it one way), it's beautiful, it's a city that has everything and there's a really good student atmosphere there, too.

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How long was the grant? How much financial aid did you receive?

The grant lasted 7 months and I got €250 a month. They give you the grant at the end of November (generally, I guess it depends on which city you're coming from).

What is the student lifestyle like in Prague?

It's incredible! There are a lot of residences and loads of Erasmus students. The university student unions are always organising things and there are parties on everyday of the week.

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

Without a doubt, I think it's the best city to do Erasmus in. The residence, although it's pretty shabby, costs €100 a month, transport is €40 for five months and works really well. Alcohol is cheap, and food and everything else costs the same as in Spain, more or less.

What is the food like there?

The food took me by surprise, it's pretty much just meat, but it has a lot of flavour. It's really filling, but really tasty.

If you're vegetarian, there are a lot of things in the supermarket for vegans and vegetarians.

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Was it difficult to find accommodation in Prague?

Not at all, the Charles University found me a residence, I didn't have to do anything.

How much does it cost to live in Prague?

Prague isn't as cheap as people think it is, the basics are very cheap (the residence and transport), but everything else costs the same or maybe very slightly cheaper than in Spain.

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

Czech is quite complicated, but they offer free courses to learn it. It's quite useful because Czech people really appreciate it when you know some basic words and phrases.

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What is the cheapest or easiest way to get to Prague from your home city?

Well, I got a deal with Iberia GoStudy that let me take two suitcases, but it's not the cheapest way.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Prague?

If you like techno, go to Cross Club and Roxy. If you like pop music: Nebe, Popocafe, Karlovy Lazne...

There are always Erasmus and Latin nights, so you'll always be able to find something you like.

I wouldn't recommend Chapeau Rouge because it's always over capacity and it gets way too hot. Besides, I don't have a lot of faith in the people on the doors and who work inside.

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

Kolkovna and U Parlamentu. But people get meals in the mensas (cafeterias) at the university for only €2.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The castle neighbourhood, the Jewish quarter, the Old Town and the new one...

Do you have any advice for future students in Prague?

Prague is an incredible place, but any city can be a great choice for your Erasmus. I would recommend Prague because it has a lot of benefits (its location in Europe, the atmosphere and prices), but whatever you do, you have to go on Erasmus.