Erasmus Experience in Rome, Italy by Phetima

Why did you choose to go to Rome, Italy?

Rome is a historical city with lots of things to see.

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

A little over one year, just enough to see me through, that's anything from 400 and above.

What is the student lifestyle like in Rome?

It's ok with academics, actually I enjoy it, but hard with accommodation, accommodation is so difficult to find, and when you find, you pay deposits of a month’s rent, but there are always ways to find accommodations, through friends and urgent, transport is not a problem at all, and most places are safe.

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

Yes, as long as the person has full information on everything, but preparations must be done adequately, on speaking Italian, how to get around maps, your budgets on food accommodations, otherwise it's a good place for new cultures, the teachers are cool with good experiences, you can expect to learn more from them.

What is the food like?

The food is difficult to get used too, mostly its bread, pizzas, and spaghetti, you can also get other foods but those are common ones.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Rome?

All accommodation are costly in Rome you also have to pay the agents, and deposits but there are so many options to choose from.

How much does it cost to live in Rome?

For a simple student less than 400 per month, comfortable student 600 per month.

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

Ooh my goodness it’s so hard I’m still learning, yes the universities provide language courses.

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

Public transport, and walking.

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

Just a few to mention a few, middle of Rome.

• Rooftop bar scene,
• Opera or theater,
• Piazza del Colosseo,
• Ancient ruins,
• Via del Portico d’Ottavia,
• The Jewish Ghetto,
• Resting at the Fountain of the Turtles at Piazza Mattei is interesting,
• Night shopping is good.

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

• La pergola,
• Pinsere,
• Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto,
• Bonci Pizzarium.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

• The old buildings of Rome and museums,
• Piazza Navona,
• Trevi Fountain,
• Pantheon,
• Villa Borghese.

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

Yes anyone planning to travel, it’s good to get in advance accommodation before leaving home country as this will help you not to worry and enjoy your stay, prepare to purchase a year or monthly ticket for public transport in Italy. Try to learn a bit of Italian language even before you travel, for most of the Italian do not speak English, food is cheap but coffee is expensive it most eating shops.

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