Erasmus Experience in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria by Maria

Why did you choose to go to Stara Zagora, Bulgaria?

It was one of the options of an english course and i was really curious about Bulgaria. Also it is very near to Turkey and Greece.

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

One academic year, my University provided me 290euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Stara Zagora?

It is a very calm city but there are many things you can do. The nightlife for me it's kind of boring because there are a lot of clubs but they all play the same kind of music , and a lot of them only play Chalga (it's like Bulgarian reggaetton). Neverthless it's a fun city, and very cheap compared to other european countries.

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

Yes.

What is the food like?

I don't really appreciate bulgarian cousine but there are a lot of very good restaurants in the city with all types of food!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Stara Zagora?

No, i am currently in the students dorm and our ERASMUS coordinator arranged everything. If you would like to find a house/apartment i think it's easy once you are here.

How much does it cost to live in Stara Zagora?

Not that much, maximum 300euros per month (but because i live in the dorms, and i pay 80leves per month only, around 40euros)

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

The language it's kind of difficult if you come from a latin speaking country but you can take a bulgarian language course in the university. Also if you reaaly want you can learn the basics( remmeber to take a look at their alphabet before coming, it will help you a lot).

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

Plane and then bus or train.

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

If you don't like chalga music go to IlMondo , also there are a few nice bars to drink and hang with friends like Drums and Pub Little Jack.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Stara Zagora?

There is the most wonderful sandwich place in the center and it's just near to the most incredible pizza place (Amo is the name) i don't really remmember the names properly , but ask around in the city and everyone will know. There is also Shami for when you leave the nightclub and want that really greasy pizza!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Opera, museums and the Samara Flag monument!

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

Just come come it's like and adventure! People are nice and the city is really welcomming.