My Erasmus Experience in Prague, Czech Republic

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

Because the country seduced me, both its history and its people. Also because I already had Czech friends who had done an Erasmus exchange the previous year in Portugal.

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How long does the grant last? How much money do you get for help?

My grant lasted for one semester, but you can ask for a year. In 2004 the Erasmus scholarship was 120 euros per month, plus travel.

What is the student environment like in Prague?

Fantastic. I was studying at the former University of Agriculture in Prague, today called "University of Life Sciences", which is located outside the city of Prague on the Suchdol Campus, 15 minutes by bus. On campus there were many parties, and many Erasmus students. There is a good atmosphere in the city, many parties and bars. Sometimes there are more Erasmus students than Czech, but there always places full of students.

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

Yes, without doubt. It was an experience that changed my life.

How about the country's food?

The food is very different from ours and your first impression may not be the best. I adapted quite well and I really like Czech food, but for those who are more picky it can be a more complicated experience. But do not miss the typical food like the potato pancakes, the dumplings...

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How did you find accommodation?

The accommodation was recommended by the host school. I stayed in one of the residences on campus.

How are the prices of accommodation? And the prices in general?

In 2004 everything was very cheap. Nowadays things are different, however, housing and food is still cheaper than in Portugal.

How is the language? Did you attend a language course at the University?

The Czech language is very difficult, especially the grammar and its 7 declensions. Learning the words takes some time but with practice gets better, building sentences is an almost impossible task.

During my stay I frequented two courses one of Czech and Culture, and another of Czech and grammar. At the end of 6 months I understood the Czechs reasonably well and was able to construct basic sentences.

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

Airplane, the cheapest is to fly from Lisbon with Easyjet to Madrid, and then from there to Wizzair to Prague

Where do you recommend for a night out in Prague?

Everywhere, the city is pretty safe. There are several bars and discos where students and young people go, like Lucerne and the Duplex, la Fabrique or Le Chateau.

And eating out in Prague? Can you name your favorite places?

At the moment it is difficult to name everything! To banish the hunger after a night out there are several fast-food places on the street with wonderful sausages, and hamburgers. Then there are restaurants outside the centre known as canteens, where office-workers eat, which have great and very cheap food, but usually only serve lunches.

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And in terms of cultural visits?

Everything! There is opera, theatre, dancing. Museums, monuments. I advise you to visit the opera, the castle, the old square, everything breathes history.

Do you have any advice you would like to give to future students in Prague?

Enjoy the wonderful place where you'll be living.