Erasmus Experience in Stockholm, Sweden by Irene

Why did you choose to go to Stockholm, Sweden?

I wanted to go as far from my homecountry, Spain, as possible so that I could really meet a new culture and experience how it is to live in another country where everything would be different: the weather, the food, the prices, the way of living, etc.

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

My scolarship lasts for 5 months, February to June. I recieve money from the EU (Erasmus scolarship, 1200 euros in total) and from the catalan government (1000 euros in total).

What is the student lifestyle like in Stockholm?

It's not like doing an Erasmus in Italy or Spain, as Sweden is an expensive country. Alcohol is very expensive, either in Systembolaget or in bars/pubs, a beer can cost 8 euros (80 SEK) and a small liquor bottle can cost 15 euros (150 SEK).

On the other hand, student pubs at university have free entry and cheap alcohol for students, and that's the best way to party and meet new people without being bankrupt!

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

Yes! Despite being expensive, Stockholm is a very beautiful city and with a hight quality of life: there is a lot of green areas, Gamla Stan (the old town) is gorgeous and the public transport works amazingly.

What is the food like?

Nice, but not like in Spain or Italy where you can eat good food economically. For example, you can find the usual food in the supermarkets but fruits and vegetables are expensive and not very fresh/juicy.

On the other hand, Swedes have the best sweets I have ever eaten! Fika is a very popular tradition, it's having a hot drink with something sweet with good company, and they have all kind of fika - sweet.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Stockholm?

Fortunately, it was pretty easy for me. As I am doing Erasmus studies, the Stockholm University gave me a room in Kungshamra, a student corridor in Solna, only 15 minutes away from University by bus.

How much does it cost to live in Stockholm?

Approximately 900- 1000 euros a month. Keep in mind that Sweden is expensive if you want to come here.

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

Swedish it's a pretty difficult language but there are free courses at the university for students and researchers. Plus, nearly everyone in Sweden speaks perfectly english so you won't have trouble with language if you speak english.

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

Flying from Barcelona el Prat to Arlanda, direct flight by Vueling of Norwegian Airlines.

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

I would recommend going to any Lion Bar, one of the cheapest bars in Stockholm, or to any student pub at Stockholm University.

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

No, as I have never been to any restaurant in Stockholm because they are quite expensive. However, I plan to go to this vegan restaurant in Södermalm called Hërmans Cafe. It is an all you can eat buffet and costs 99 SEK with a student discount.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

• Gamla Stan, the old town
• Södermalm
• National parks right outside Stockholm like Tyresta
• Växholm and Sigtuna, some beautiful islands of the Swedish Archipelago

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

Even if it's an expensive country, Stockholm has so much to offer to students! Make the most of your experience here, it will teach you a lot!