Erasmus Experience in Utena, Lithuania by Svetlana

Why did you choose to go to Utena, Lithuania?

Because it is a small town in Lithuania and is in the region with a lot of lakes and great nature.

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

The scholarahip is for one semester. And you recieve money depending on the country you come, for Macedonia is 2200€.

What is the student lifestyle like in Utena?

Not so much stuff to do for entertainment in the winter, but when the weather starts to get warmer it is amazing.

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

Yes ofcourse, the warm and welcoming stuff of Utenos kolegija will treat you like theri own.

What is the food like?

The food is okay, it depends on what person eats. But you can always cook.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Utena?

Not so much, it is actually really cheap.

How much does it cost to live in Utena?

To live in student dormitory with the possibility if one or three roomates it costs 50€ per month, and a comfortable apartment from 70€.

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

Not so easy language but the University offers free Lithuanian course for the semester.

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

Since Macedonia is a bit far from Lithuania, it is by plane.

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

Maybe Paletes bar, and also there are two other bars in the coty, but if you are up for a good talk maybe some of the restaurants and pizzerias.

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

Not so much choice, but Burgundija is quite good and with very good traditinal Lithuanian food, and ofcourse here is Hesburger, Cili Pizza, Carlie Pizza.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are two lakes in the city, the museum of the old post office, also a little bit outside the city there are wild lakes, a lot of hills and parks, woods and places with good history behind them. Just visit tourist information center and they will explain very good.

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

If possible, go in spring semester, and if not take a lot of warm clothes for the winter season because it is very cold, but in spring is very amazing. I think that living in a small city you can find out more and learn more about Lithuania's culture and about the country.