Experience in Santiago de Compostela, Spain by Giulia

What is it like to live in Santiago de Compostela? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I would recommend this city because it has the right "size" for students. It is not a big city, it's just a town where you can walk around without losing your way. Moreover, it is clean and safe.

The landscape is fantastic, especially the cost: enormous beaches, cliffs, lighthouses...

However, I would not recommend it for who cannot live without sunlight: it is a very rainy place! It is not the classical touristic Spanish site, but I'd rather live in Santiago than in Madrid or Barcelona!

I left my heart there, in the town where the route of pilgrims ends.

What is the student lifestyle like in Santiago de Compostela?

Despite the idea of a religious town, the modern part of Santiago is a living centre for young people.

There are discos (Shango and Apolo), but after to go there you have to pass for the historical centre and try some tapas (typical monodose appetizers) and enter some old pub to buy some liqueurs like the chocolate one!

How much does it cost to live in Santiago de Compostela?

Less than To live in Italy. Food is cheaper than in Turin, especially fish: you find extraordinary fish at excellent prices!

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Santiago de Compostela? Is there any advice you can give?

I don't think it is difficult as it is a University centre. Anyway, I stayed in one of the university residences, called Monte Da Condesa.

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

The food is WOW, because the traditional Spanish dishes meet the unique Galician fish. You cannot miss the Pulpo a feira, the Pimientos de Padrón, the classical tortillas españolas and, in the Christmas period, los Polvorones! And if you're not vegetarian, try the spectacular Jamón Serrano!

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What places would you recommend visiting in Santiago de Compostela?

First of all, the Cathedral. It is a masterpiece! Then, as the rain is the queen of Santiago, the several parks and green areas that surround the centre: the biggest one is the Alameda, with the statue of the two Marias.

Is it good to eat out in Santiago de Compostela? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, of course! Rua do Franco is the street dedicated to restaurants and bars, so you're plenty of choice! On of the most recommendable places is Manolo, a restaurant in Plaza Cervantes. A bit touristic, though.

Is the nightlife good in Santiago de Compostela? Where is good to go?

As I told before, there are pub in the historical centre (Babel, etc. ) and discos in the modern borough (Shango, Apolo).

What advice would you give future students headed to Santiago de Compostela?

Take an umbrella! And enjoy the life as a real Galician guy.

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