Erasmus Experience in Sofia, Bulgaria by Xabier

Why did you choose to go to Sofia, Bulgaria?

Because I wanted to try somewhere different; somewhere I probably never would have gone to if I hadn't have gone there on Erasmus. Sofia is very well located to travel, at very good prices to the countries close by which are very interesting. Another reason was that I wanted to improve my English and yes, that's what I did (I also read/supposed that there would be many students, which means good parties and cheaper prices than here).

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How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive as aid?

I am here first of all for 6 months. They give us all The EU grant and I believe the one from Spain too (they want to stop it next year. The bastards could lower their wages or better, get everyone in a plane that they're piloting themselves), which I suppose is 1, 300 in total. Then, there are the autonomous communities and the banks. Thanks to the Basque government and the BBK, I have an extra 1, 100 euros, which gives me a total of 2, 400 euros; money which of course, I blew in the first 3 months.

How is student life in Sofia?

Student life is simply perfect. There are students from many places in Europe and from countries that you would have never imagined. They organise many parties in the blocks or in the flats. It's ideal to practice English and to improve in it a lot. We're at least 40 Spaniards too; who are always grateful to speak your language.

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

I recommend it 100%; to go there on Erasmus has probably been the best decision of my life. In regards to the university, mine is small and I barely ever have to go xD. The University of Sofia is the oldest and most important university there. There are many exchange students from a wide variety of countries.

How is the country's food?

It's not very different to here, although you will miss things such as good cold meats, paella or your mum's 'cocido', etc. You can always try and cook. They more or less have the products in the supermarket. They have some tasty traditional dishes there but you can't eat anywhere like you can here in Spain.

Did you find it hard to find accommodation in Sofia?

I didn't find it hard. The university asked me if I wanted to live in room on their block and I chose a shared one. I considered that having a flatmate would be important at first and now he, who is from Egypt, has ended up being the brother that I never had. We really know how to have fun here.

How much does it cost to live in Sofia?

I have spent an average of around 1, 00 euros a month, although the residence only costs me 60/70 euros a month. The thing is, is that I have been on several trips and also go out partying a lot, as well as buying electrical appliances and utensils for the room. Regarding the prices, it could be said that they're generally cheaper than here (in around 3/4 of it seeing as it's the capital and other places in Bulgaria can be cheaper than Sofia).

How is the language? Did you go to any course at the University?

The language is very complicated. There is no relation. They use the Cyrillic alphabet, which I am perfectly capable of reading because I took free classes at the University. I manage to get what I want with taxi drivers or in some shops. There is also laughter when you speak four nonsenses to the Bulgarians.

The Cyrillic alphabet

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What's the most affordable way of getting to Sofia from your city?

From Bilbao, what can be the most economical can be travelling by bus/train to Madrid or Barcelona and flying to Sofia from there. Although for a little more, you will find flights from your city (or Bilbao at least) to Sofia, with a quick layover and with good airlines, which for me, is worth it.

Which places would you recommend to go over to party in Sofia?

Jim Beam, Cabaret, Bedroom, Once Upon a Time... Simply wherever the party is organised on that day! I live in the University city and it's all clubs with Bulgarian music there. At first, you go crazy but if you go with your friends from Erasmus, they're a laugh. My favourite is the Playhouse with free entry for Erasmus and it's where the best atmosphere is.

And to eat in Sofia? Can you name your favourite places?

En Studensk (the university district), there are many cheap kebabs and there is the Fantastiko; a very big supermarket which sells hot food, salads and pasta etc. separately. My favourites are the Borumachkata (traditional Bulgarian and well priced) or La Bodega, where they have some Spanish products and exceptional customer service, although price-wise, it's somewhat more expensive. The chain Divaka is very well known in the centre; the prices and the variety are good but for me, the quality isn't.

And as a cultural visit?

The Alexander Nevski cathedral is Sofia's main attraction. It's not a spectular city culturally speaking, although the centre is pretty with its Vitosha boulevard, the Palace of Culture, the Parliament and a theatre etc. If this worries you, then don't worry. You will travel to cities such as Bucharest, Istanbul, Thessaloniki, etc.

The Alexander Nevski cathedral

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Any advice that you want to give to future students in Sofia?

Don't get too caught up in your first impressions and leave your prejudices at home. I haven't had a single problem to date in my three months there and I have barely come across any trouble. If you're someone with an open mind, you will enjoy the best experience of your life. I am already thinking of staying here for as long as possible!