Erasmus Experience in Sofia, Bulgaria by Ahmed

Why did you choose to go to Sofia, Bulgaria?

Uh! As I'm a pharmacist, I had very few choices to apply for Erasmus Mundus Scholarships. I applied for 3 countries, and Bulgaria was my last choice.

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

It was for 10 months, starting from October, 2013 to August, 2014.

I was receiving 1000 Euros per month (~2000 Bulgarian Leva).

What is the student lifestyle like in Sofia?

Cool. You'll absolutely enjoy there. There's a lot of beautiful bars and clubs. If you asked me where you've to, I'd absolutely advice you to go to Mega Dance and Cotton Club if you're a fan of dancing; but as for drinking, you've to go to the centre. There's a lot of amazing bars there. You've also tried to dance Bulgarian traditional dance. Come on! I like this dance so much.

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

Hmm... I don't think so.

What is the food like?

It wasn't bad. At least, you've to try once.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Sofia?

Nope, it's easy to find a good room with cheap price, especially in the Studnetski Grad.

How much does it cost to live in Sofia?

Ranging from 600 - 800 Euros per month.

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

Yup, it's easy to learn Bulgarian and most of the universities there offer free courses to learn it. But you could use English to deal with others.

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

Plane.

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

Bars, Clubs or Discos.

Let me suggest you some bars, clubs and discos:

• Mega Dance
• Cotton Club
• Club 35
• Harem Lounge
• Umbrella

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

• Subway
• Simiti Sraya
• Fantastico

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Vitosha mountain.

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

Be nice with Bulgarian girls. They're very nice and pretty.