Erasmus Experience in Stockholm, Sweden by Violeta

Why did you choose to go to Stockholm, Sweden?

Because it's a country which I'd already been to 5 years ago and I was very struck by the way of life they lead and how well regarded the country is.

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How long does the grant last? How much money do you receive as aid?

The ministry grant lasts for 6 months and you receive approximately €2, 000.

How is student life in Stockholm?

Great! There is a lot of atmosphere and young people from all over the world.

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

Definitely! Both the KTH and the Stockholm University are in the top 100 of the world's best universities. The city is beautiful, especially in winter and it has 1, 000 corners to escape in; parks and woods which are very well cared for, and cafés and alleys with a lot of charm.

How is the country's food?

The country's food is generally very healthy; a lot of vegetables, a lot of forest fruits, a lot of fish and a lot of meat. The Swedish love food from all over the world so it's easy to find everything in the city; Japanese, Mexican, Spanish, Mongolian, Chinese, Thai and Italian, etc.

Was it hard to find accommodation in Stockholm?

Luckily no. The university took care of everything and gave me a residence to live in.

How much does it cost to live in Stockholm?

A lot of money. The residences cost around €2, 000 for six months. The flats are impossible, from 1, 000 to 7, 000 a month. The cheapest supermarkets are Lidl and Willys. It costs around €150 for a three month transport pass for the metro and bus.

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

Swedish is quite a difficult language for the Spanish. If you are going to be there for a year, I recommend signing up to courses at the Uni which also give you credits. If you're only there for half a year... I wouldn't do it. You won't learn more than four phrases that you won't use.

What is the most affordable way for getting to Stockholm from your city?

From Zaragoza, it's best to travel to Barcelona where there is a direct flight to Stockholm with Ryanair or Vueling.

Which places would you recommend to go out to party in Stockholm?

Sturecompagniet, Marie Leveau, Klub Bla, Underbron y Tradgarden without a shadow of a doubt.

Ugglan to go for a drink and to play petanque, trivial and table football...

Poshest places: Berns, Café opera or Corner Bar.

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

Restaurant C. C. (typical Swedish food), Vapiano (a cheap Italian all over the city), Hemköp, Flippin Burger, Rice Buffet (cheap €10 Sushi buffet) and Max (a burger bar with Swedish fast food).

To have a coffee: Snickarvaguen 7, Urban Deli, Expresso House, Kafé Esaias, Chokladkoppen and Cafe Baresso...

And as a cultural visit?

Gamla Stan (the old city), Södermalm (alternative, hipster neighbourhood, where the Millennium trilogy was born), Norrmalm (the market area and luxury shops), Djurgarden (it's an island, full of museums and gardens).

Södermalm

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Any advice that you want to give to the future students of Stockholm?

Enjoy the city and it's people which have so much to offer you! Pay attention to the night sky during Winter. The Aurora Borealis is seen in the middle of Stockholm and this is once in a lifetime (and that's if you're lucky). It's a magical city!

Aurora Borealis

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