Erasmus Experience in Toulouse, France by Hyejin

Why did you choose to go to Toulouse, France?

I have learnt French and heard the weather of Toulouse is really nice.

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

My exchange program was 4 months. I got around $1300 from my home university.

What is the student lifestyle like in Toulouse?

There are so many students in Toulouse. So you can make a new friend not only in the school but also in other places. Going to school in the morning and hanging out with friends after class. It's normal student life, I think.

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

Yes. First of all, its weather is really nice except the middle of summer. And it's really sunny so it makes you refreshed and warm. It's located in southern part of France, so it's good to travel other beautiful cities near the Mediterranean. And people are really kind.

What is the food like?

Food is good, but it's kinda expensive.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Toulouse?

Yeah. It was kinda hard to find an accommodation. Because most of the apartment owners didn't want a student who will stay only 4 months.

How much does it cost to live in Toulouse?

I payed 410 euros per month for my rent. Including the rent, I think I spent around 1300euros per month. But I traveled a lot even during the semester.

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

I already had the background about French, so it was not that difficult. And school provided French courses for exchange students, but my friends, who learned French first time, they said progress speed is too fast.

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

Taking an airplane.

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

Jean Jaures or Garonne River.

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

L'entrecote is kinda expensive but dishes are really delicious. Facing l'entrecote, there's a restaurant named Bristol One. It's also good.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Near Toulouse, there's a city named Carcassonne. It's really old and beautiful city. I recommend you to visit there and eat Cassoulet, the traditional food.