My Erasmus Experience in Rome, Italy - by Laura

What's the food like in Italy?

Incredible, the best I've ever tried. Pasta, pizza, desserts...Italy's a gastronomical paradise!

Did you find it hard to find somewhere to live in Rome?

In a way, yes, since it took me almost a week to find somewhere. It was a bit challenging since I wanted something suitable for me.

How expensive is living in Rome?

The truth is that Rome's quite an expensive city in general. As you get to know the place and Italian people though, you'll learn where you can save money.

How are you finding the language? Have you signed up to a language class at the university?

I came to Italy knowing no Italian and could understand everything after about a month. Speaking the language is a bit more difficult, but you get used to it in the end. It's all a question of practice. I study nursing, and I learned a lot of Italian during my work experience in a hospital. Living in a shared flat with two Italian girls also really motivated me to improve.

What's the cheapest way of getting to Rome from your home city?

I come from a small town in La Rioja. For me, the cheapest way was to get a train to Barcelona and then a plane to Fiumicino (in Rome).

What are the best places for partying in Rome?

There are loads of Erasmus parties on every day, and you'll never find it hard to find somewhere to go out in this city. You can go clubbing on a Monday, a Wednesday, a Saturday... there's always an Erasmus party on. They are cheap parties too thanks to the ESN - it's around 5 or 10 euros to get into the club and have a drink.

What about eating out in Rome? What are your favourite places?

Trastévere, any aperitivi bar, pizzerias... everywhere.

What does Rome have to offer in terms of culture?

Rome is the best city I've ever visited in terms of culture. Everything is beautiful, and everywhere you go you discover something new, from churches, to the millions of ruins, the amazing Colisseum, Piazza Navona, the Vatican, the incredible Fountain di Trevi... I can't write a full list here. Everything is incredible.

Do you have any advice for future students coming to Rome?

Don't hesitate to choose this city as your Erasmus destination. It won't disappoint you!