Erasmus Experience in Sofia, Bulgaria from Belgium

Why did you choose to go to Sofia, Bulgaria?

Because I didn't have the funds other students in my school had, I decided to go to the cheapest country I could possibly go :-) Additionally, Bulgaria was such an unknow country to me, and I was up for a challenge. It turned out to be the best decision of my life, so don't hesitate going there. The time is now!

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

I got a scholarship for one semester, which would add up to 900 euros in total. I got the scholarship after I got back, so make sure you have money to survive of.

What is the student lifestyle like in Sofia?

For foreign students, the academic life is way easier than for Bulgarian students. Sofia University is one of the highest ranking universities in eastern Europe. Teachers are highly educated and very willing to share their knowledge. Hours aren't that long, and Bulgarian students are very eager to share their life with you.

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

Definitely. The architecture of this building is amazing. It is easy to get lost in, but don't let that stop you from going. Getting lost is the most beautiful part of this school :-) People are helpful and will help you get around.

Sofia as a city is like a town. You will find your favourite places easily and you still have the opportunity to experience new things everyday. Studentski Grad is wild! It's totally worth staying there (and cheap) and you will have some of thé best nights of your life there. I guarantee!

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What is the food like?

I really loved traditional Bulgarian food. Banitsa, kebabche,.. It is all great comfort food. Prices are very very reasonable and there is food to be found on every corner of the street.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Sofia?

No. My accomodation was taken care of by the University. That is how we ended up in Block 8 in Studentski Grad. And it was brilliant!

How much does it cost to live in Sofia?

My room in block 8 cost me around 40 euros a month, including water, gas and electricity. I shared a room with one roommate, we had our own bathroom but no kitchen.

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

Sofia University offers free language courses. it is quite intense: 4 hours every day (9-1), and at the end you taken an exam (that they will let you pass anyway). Bulgarian is hard, but that makes it all the more challenging and fun. Getting grips on Cyrillic alphabet and Bulgarian language is all part of the deal in Bulgaria!

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

True Wizzair. Book tickets in advance and you can fly for about 30 euros.

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

Stroeja in Studentski Grad. Club Liquor. A chalga club. And just any other bar or club that has people around that want to have fun.

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

O'Shipka on Shipka Street. The Golden Kebabche in the Center. And zhenski bazar for fruit and veggies.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

ESN Sofia will show you all thats good in Bulgaria, or at least try, because there is sooo much to see. Visit the seven Rila lakes, go for a hike in the mountains, go skiing in Bansko, visit Rila church and Ivan Rilski's grave, go to the black sea coast, visit Blagoevgrad,... it's a neverending list. Plus: Turkey, Romania, Slovenia,... It's all there, and you can do it by bus for a very cheap price.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Sofia in the future?

Go! Enjoy! Never forget!