Erasmus Experience in Presov (Slovakia) by Tsvetelina

Why did you choose to go to Presov, Slovakia?

I decided to come here because of a few reasons:

• Presov is not bigger than my hometown.
• I found the city for charming and very beautiful.
• Slovak language is similar to my mother tongue (Bulgarian) and it's not difficult for me to understand it.
• Slovakia is situated in the centre of Europe, so if you dream to travel a lot abroad (just like me) this place is perfect for you.

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

I study in Presov one semester and receive 450 euro. They are enough for my living costs.

What is the student lifestyle like in Presov?

In Presov there are many cafes, cake shops, club and pubs. Some of them are very near to the dorm.

It is easy to travel by train in Slovakia and it is for free if you have ISIC card, if you like travelling, of course.

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

Yes, I definitely recommend the city and university to everyone. I feel amazing here!

What is the food like?

Honestly, traditional Slovak cuisine is heavy but I like it, it is delicious. Check halusky and pirohy, and the traditional Slovak cheese bryndza is great too.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Presov?

It was not difficult to find accommodation in Presov because I applied for accommodation in the dorm and I was accepted. I pleased at conditions in the dorm. I have only one roommate. We have big wardrobes, a table, chairs, shelves, a fridge in our rooms. And it's always warm enough. Moreover, on our floor (Erasmus floor) we have two kitchens. You can cook whatever you want but only on hot-plate because there is no oven. And of course, there is perfect internet connection.

How much does it cost to live in Presov?

Accommodation fee is 120 euro per month. I buy food from Tesco once in a week and it costs 10-15 euro.

But the other things depend on your lifestyle, whether you will go out a lot or not and if you prefer to give your money for drinking, food or trips, for example.

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

As I said Slovak is similar to Bulgarian and I can understand a lot. But I attend Slovak classes at the university. There are two kinds of classes, it depends on if your mother tongue is Slavic or not.

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

I travelled by bus from my hometown (Shumen) to Bratislava, after that I used bus. But you can use a train from Bratislava to Presov too, especially if you have ISIC card, you have discount.

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

In my opinion, the best places are "Ponorka pub" and "Wave club". If you want cheap shots I can recommend "F pub".

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

"Atrium" is a favourite restaurant of me and my friends. There is one more great place, it is called "Za siedmimi oknami". There you can taste amazing pancakes.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Slovak National Museum in Presov is very interesting, and nearby the city you can find many ruined or not ruined castles.

In Presov there are some theatres and cinemas too.

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

Just do it! Enjoy the city, the country and don't postpone any trip.

Use every single moment to make memories and to discover new place, culture or person.

Good luck!