Experience in Rhodes, Greece by Anna

What is it like to live in Rhodes? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Having lived 17 years on Rhodes I would not recommend living in Rhodes longer than for a erasmus experience but I would recommend it for a summer vacation. In my last years on that island I had the feeling that things are kinda rotting apart because people don´t investigate or don´t have money left to take care of the city like it would be needed to but maybe this was only my impression of it because all I wanted was get away from there.

What is the student lifestyle like in Rhodes?

I didn´t go to university there but if I judge from the school system and facilities I´d describe things as elliptic and altered. As for fun activities I think you should go there in summer otherwise you might be dissapointed.

How much does it cost to live in Rhodes?

Food is expensive. I think the life costs are depending on how much you go outside. I guess electricity, water and oil are still average for Europe.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Rhodes? Is there any advice you can give?

I have no idea.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Well... I have eaten terrible and I have eaten wonderfully on Rhodes. Greek food? Dolmadakia, pastitsio, pita (gyros), tyropita used to make my taste buds happy. People who are not familiar with the greek food usually say it is a little too oily. But hey, they also have yummy pizza and when they make crepes they don´t only put one thin layer of chocolate in there... They fill that thing. If don´t plan to become fat you can benefit from the local oranges and the grapes and melons etc. (spring-summer). I forgot... Greek salad exists too.

What places would you recommend visiting in Rhodes?

I could write untill tomorrow to answer this question. I have heard people saying they got bored of looking at old stones (ruines). It depends on what your interests are but be sure you don´t only hang around on one side of the island where Rhodes town is. There are naturally beautifull places like the butterfly valley or prasonisi and other coast areas. If you can afford it learn to wind surf. Beach life is awesome.

Is it good to eat out in Rhodes? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

I haven´t been there in a while. Shops/restaurants/ Cafes are often renamed or closed or sold and what was in and crowded and filled with cool people the on year might be empty the next. I don´t wanna tell you any bullshit here.

Is the nightlife good in Rhodes? Where is good to go?

CLO in the old town. If you go there in summer you to the orfanidou bar street or to the bars in faliraki where all the tourists get drunk and dance and stuff, it is a crazy experience garanty.

What advice would you give future students heading to Rhodes?

Young greek people curse each other alot even when they are not angry at each other at all. Don´t let their bad english or bad english comprehension annoy you. Don´t throw toilet paper into the toilets. People are like children. They don´t know how to deal with their emotions, they are desperate about their future. Don´t try drugs in Greece because they are bad quality. It is a magical and crazy island. You will love it, or hate it. Get prepared for bad organization and chaos but be sure that you will never forget it.