Experience in the University of the Algarve, Portugal. By Leonor

In general, how is the University of the Algarve?

The conditions offered are good. My course, Tourism, is 3 years long. I study in the School of Management, Hospitality and Tourism, in the Penha Campus. Like all universities there are things that are better than others. For international students who don't speak Portuguese but who want to study there, it's not the best option since the classes are all in Portuguese.

How are the available facilities?

They're good. The only not so good thing is the library on the Penha Campus. It's a bit far from the other buildings. Whoever is studying on the Gambelas Campus has to go by bus and these buses don't run very frequently.

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What are the tutors like?

The tutors are approachable and if you need anything you just have to ask them at the beginning/end of the class, or send an email.

Are the classes easy at the University of the Algarve?

Some subjects are easy, but others are hard. However, at least in Tourism, you have to study a little to pass the units.

The university receives hundreds of international students each year but they still don't offer classes in English... That's to say, almost no classes in English.

Does the university organise activities? How are they?

Every month there are lectures/conferences. The majority of activities are organised by the students in the particular courses. Some teachers organise study visits.

Do you think the teaching is good quality?

On my course, Tourism, the large majority of subjects are run very well and you learn a lot.

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Do you have a story you'd like to share?

I've got to know many Erasmus students and they have shared their experience in the University and the city of Faro.

I can tell you the following:

• The beach is 10km from Faro. You can get there by bike or by bus.
• The buses are expensive: €2. 22 for adults and €1. 05 for children.
• The nightlife and the parties are really good and cheap. Normally you don't have to pay to get in.
• If you don't speak Portuguese there are almost no classes.
• You can rent houses for between €140 and €200 with bills included (sometimes for even less).
• The university residence is €121 with everything included (shared room). There are many residences, some better than others...