Erasmus Experience in Toulouse, France by Ashley

Why did you choose to go to Toulouse, Francia?

I chose to go to Toulouse mostly for the weather. I am a Canadian and I studied away during the winter semester so I missed all the cold and snow by studying in Toulouse. The coldest it got when I was there only warranted a light jacket or sweater.

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

I studied there from January to May. I didn't receive any money to help with living costs but you can get your rent in a Crous building reimbursed. Go and speak to the students at the international society or the Welcome Desk as soon as you arrive because you must arrange for this before you pay your rent.

What is the student lifestyle like in Toulouse?

It is a very lively place to be. EIMA, the international society at my university, was always hosting events and parties. The bar scene is huge, most events happen over drinks but if you rather potlucks and karaoke nights they will also have you covered. Students usually get discounts on things like transit, admission, drinks, and sometimes food. It is a student city for sure.

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

I would recommend this city highly. It is a very welcoming place with lots to do. It isn't the bustling metropolis that Paris is but that makes it easier to find your footing. The people are kind and understanding if you make mistakes in your french, they will often give you a mini lesson to help you out!

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What is the food like?

The food is amazing! You will easily find somewhere to eat out but also there are tons of markets from the pricy Victor Hugo to the bargain Jeanne d'Arc. Cafe culture is big, dont expect to get a coffee on the go. The first Starbucks opened at Jean Jaurès the day that I left.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Toulouse?

You can apply through Crous for student accommodations. It doesn't cost you to apply but you must pay to hold the room once you are accepted. Apply early.

How much does it cost to live in Toulouse?

It was 279€ a month to live at the Cité Universitaire de Chapou. That includes a kitchen unit.

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

I've studied french my whole life so the language wasn't difficult for me at all but they do offer language courses at the uni. The toulousains are super generous and will help you if you are struggling to communicate as well.

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

I live in North America so I had to fly. I flew through London to Paris and then to Toulouse. That was the cheapest at the time but if you get a good deal on a flight to Paris, it's about 70€ to get a train ticket to Toulouse. It's about 6 hours from Paris by train.

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

Throw a rock and hit a bar in Toulouse! Usually the local or the university will organize nights out so you will get a good idea of the places you like. FYI, food joints close early, no late night pizzas here!

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

Meet the Meat and Entrecôte are spectacular steakhouse, Flowers Cafe is a delightful dessert cafe, Raz de Tasse and The Coffeepot are more traditional cafes, more budget friendly restos are nestled all around Capitole and Jean Jaurès squares.

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What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Capitole is a must. The museums are free the first Sunday of the month. After that, you can rent a car and drive to Carcassonne which is an amazing UNESCO world heritage site. Albi, be sure to get there. The school will organize trips to all of these places.

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

French paperwork is a pain. Don't get frustrated, someone will be happy to help you.

Get involved, sign up for everything, get to know people but also book a solo train or bus ticket to Paris or Barcelona, Marseille or Dijon and just go exploring. The bus tickets are a cheap as 7€ if you don't mind the travel time.