Erasmus Experience in Setúbal, Portugal by Ljubica

Why did you choose to go to Setúbal, Portugal?

I decided to come here because I heard a lot of positive things about life here, Portuguese culture, people here, good work in my profession and so on. Also I didn't have lot of choices because of my field of study (speech language pathology), so I decided to come here.

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

I've got money for 4 and half months (410 euro per month) which is quite enough for covering monthly cost (accommodation, transport, food, going out etc. ).

What is the student lifestyle like in Setúbal?

Here is relaxed atmosphere. I don't have a lot of classes here so there is enough time for discovering new places, meeting new people and hanging out. Considering there is no many people on Erasmus exchange here, we all know each others and there are always some organized meetings (before going out or some dinners).

Also the local people organize some events because they want to meet new people and cultures, so you will not just hang out with Erasmus people. You will have a chance to meet some Portuguese people too.

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

People here are really nice, they will try to help even though they don't speak English very well or don't know the answer on your question, they will always try to do something for you. Professors are really nice and more friendly. I like small cities like Setubal, it's not so expensive, have beautiful beaches, has good location (just 30 min from Lisbon by bus). IPS is small university but good organized.

What is the food like?

I like food here. You can try some specialities from this place and the prices are ok. Also food in shops is not so expensive.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Setúbal?

I found an apartment in the city center for 170 euro per month which is really good price when you compare it with prices in another cities. I live with 3 girls. The owner of the house is trying hard to help us with every questions or problems we have.

How much does it cost to live in Setúbal?

I think that 410 euro is enough for life here but if you want to travel more then you need more money.

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

I came really late (at the end of February) so I couldn't attend Portuguese class. But if you know languages like Italian, Spanish or French it will be easier for you to understand at least vocabulary of this language. I think it's not so hard.

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

Just by plane and it's not cheap at all. Ticket price for two ways is approximately about 200 euro (Zagreb-Lisbon).

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

There is no so much night bars here but on Thursday it's students night and there are good prices for drinks. You have like 5-6 clubs but after 4am everyone go to the club name Design which works till 7. Usually before going out we do some pre-party at someone's house.

And for drinking coffe there is one coffe bar on six floor of one building (Forum) on Avenue Luisa Todi which has beautiful view on whole Setubal, Troia and river.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are some museums, churches to visit here. Also the castle which is little bit outside from city center.

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Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Setúbal?

Even this is a small place, I really like it. The people, the town and possibilities that you are given. Don't worry, here you will meet a lot of nice people, have fun and a lot of opportunities to try new things. Whoever comes here, will not regret it.