Carlotta's Erasmus experience in Timişoara, Romania

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Why did you choose to go to Timişoara, Romania?

Because going to a country as interesting as Romania seemed exotic to me, and because the city's location on the map is exceptional. It's very close to Serbia and Hungary. It's great for travelling. Another thing which attracted me at the time was that life in Romania is much cheaper than it is in the majority of the countries I could have gone to.

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

In my case, the grant lasted for the length of the course, from September/October to June/July. I received about 150 euros per month - I don't know exactly how much it was because they paid us in two instalments. But, given the fact that Romania isn't an expensive country, you can live well there with a little more.

What's the student life like in Timişoara?

It's quite varied. The night life is really good and there are loads of clubs and discos. Whatever your style is, you're sure to find a venue where you'll feel right at home.

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

Without a doubt. It's a very small city - it's cosy, beautiful, and perfect for students. It's more or less a university city. The University is a little chaotic in some aspects, but it's alright. The university I went to was the West University of Timişoara (UVT).

What's the food like in Romania?

It's very good, especially in the region I was in (judging by what I've been told by other Romanians from other areas and from what I saw myself).

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Timişoara?

No, because the UVT automatically gives you a place in their on-campus accommodation.

Regarding the accommodation, the rooms are for two people, with mixed communal bathrooms and one kitchen per floor. You have to buy all the utensils, everything from plates and cutlery to pots and pans, Tupperware, toilet roll, bed sheets... and not all the rooms have a refrigerator, you have to fight a little for the things left by students when they leave or buy things second hand. That is the bad thing about it. The Internet connection is really good and the campus is well situated, very close to the city centre. When you first arrive, the accommodation is quite scary, I won't lie... but you get used to it pretty quickly and you feel at home eventually. Bearing in mind that I paid 20 euros a month when I was there, I'm not complaining! hahaha.

In the rooms, you don't really feel the cold in the winter, and in the summer it gets pretty hot, depending on which way your room faces.

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How much does living in Timişoara cost?

It's very cheap. The currency in Romania is the leu - one euro is about four or five lei. Living there isn't expensive at all. The expensive thing is going to shopping centres or department stores, so it's best to go to local markets but you have to speak to the stall owners in Romanian, otherwise they find it difficult to understand you. You can get the fixed menu in cafés for about three euros (around 18 lei), which is very affordable if you want to eat out. Public transport is cheap and so are taxis, especially compared with Spain. Having said that, I've been told prices have gone up a bit recently. Going out is also quite cheap, but that depends on where you go.

What's the language like? Did you take language classes at the University?

The language is easy, it's like a mix between Latin, Italian, Spanish... hahaha it's not complicated at all. You can get to grips with the language really quickly, at least enough to be able to get by with the locals. The University offers a language course every term which is really useful.

Most people understand English and even Spanish, but I would recommend learning a little Romanian because the locals treat you better if you do - you're in their country, after all.

What's the cheapest way to get to Timişoara from your city?

That depends on which airline you fly with, and which airport you fly to. It used to be cheaper than it is now, though.

Which venues would you recommend for going out in Timişoara?

It all depends on which type of music you're into, and what kind of environment you like to be in. The most well-known ones are D'arc, Heaven, No Name, Zambara, Taine, Alquimia, Pantheon... there are loads, though I can't remember the names of many of them now.

And what about eating in Timişoara? Can you give us the names of some of your favourite places to eat out?

There are lots of places to eat out in the student complex, and many of them open 24 hours, which is really handy sometimes. Chic, Roy, Happy, Pret-a-manger, Oxford, Porkys, Retro, Napoleon (they have some amazing pizzas)... In the city centre you can find the more elegant restaurants, but some of the are worth a visit, like Casa cu flori, Lloid... and of course, you have to try the Timisoreana Beer Factory.

What about culture?

It's a small city but it has a lot of charm.

Do you have any advice for future students in Timişoara?

Watch out for the changes in weather, they can be quite severe. In the winter it snows and it's very cold, and in the summer the heat is sweltering. Don't stay inside, go out and enjoy the city, it's small but there are so many things to see and do during the day and also at night. And, most importantly, enjoy your time there and get to know the area well - it's a wonderful place!