Erasmus Experience in Vaasa, Finland by Violeta

Why did you choose to go to Vaasa, Finland?

I've decided to go to Vaasa, because I've always dreamt about going to Scandinavia one way or another. It was basically my dream come true and it was pretty much what I have expected from it.

Source

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

My scholarship was for 3 months. It started in the middle of August and ended in the beginning of December. It was 500 euros a month it was a big help as I was able to pay for my accommodation. It was not the cheapest flat, You can always look for cheaper one, but consider that cheapest ones have no furniture.

What is the student lifestyle like in Vaasa?

It is whatever You choose it to be like. It can be wild, it can be calm. I've chose calmer side as it was perfect environment for me to get to know myself. It was so calm and relaxing, the nature is amazing and you can dive into that kind of environment and state of mind anytime you want. Of course if you want to party and have fun there is always Fontana and Oliver's and home parties with your new friends. If You feel adventurous it is always an option, just don't go alone, find somebody that would go with you and google maps is always a saviour of the day. Don't go too deep into the forest without person that is native to these forests. You WILL get lost in them.

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

The city is quite small and it might be a shock to big city kids. But in general you can find anything you might need in it.

Source

What is the food like?

Try anything that is weird and Finnish and unfamiliar. Don't be afraid to explore the food it is AMAZING! Some of them are weird and you probably won't like it, but do try everything or at last as much as possible, you won't regret it. There will be probably a Finnish dinner party or something like that. Go there and enjoy weird Finnish foods. By the way, ramen spot near the city centre is worth the money, oh and of course Fazer cafe in the city centre... YUMMY!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Vaasa?

It didn't cost me anything to find it as there are quite few internet sites that are probably suggested in your starting pack. Try to contact them. Best options are VOAS and Larkan. I lived in Larkan. You will understand about that famous finnish personal space bubble after you live in Larkan apartment. Totally.

How much does it cost to live in Vaasa?

It is quite cheap city if you won't go to every party, stop smoking and drinking. Those things are quite expensive. Minimani is the cheapest supermarket there, you will find everything there. Literally - EVERYTHING. I went grocery shopping once a week and bought fruits and veggies and it was not poor diet at all. I spent approx. 150 euros a month on food and 323 euros for my flat.

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

Everybody speaks English here. Even if they say that their English is bad they are lying. They can and they will if you ask them. You will probably learn Swedish in your uni. If you are from Vaasa university, you will learn it there and if you are from any other uni or college you will learn in Abo academi.

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

I've travelled from Kaunas to Vaasa by car. I doubt it was the cheapest way to do it it, but plane tickets were ridiculously expensive. My roommate flew from Madrid and back cheaper then it would have cost me one way trip.

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

There are two main clubs in Vaasa: Fontada and Oliver's. These are the main student gathering spots. Also there will be a lot of other activities suggested to you by your uni.

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

Ramen spot near Vaasa city center is amazing. All the little cafe have very tasty pastry and coffee as well.

There is a sushi bar in the shopping centre, very good stuff for quite low price. Also check out Asian shop near city market. They have everything Asian if you are into it. Also good spices and products.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are quite few events in Vaasa's market place. You will be most likely be informed by your tutor about them. Also there are few museums in the city, you could go and visit them.

Source

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

The most comfortable transportation is bicycle. You can buy it in the secondhand store/shop. There is one as a Facebook group "Students Secondhand Store, Vaasa" I totally recommend it. Also there is big secondhand store out of the city called COMBO go there f you have the time. And some others in the city. just ask around and people will tell you.

It is always windy in Vaasa so always carry around a hat or scarf to cover your head and ears, take care of yourself. If you will have sauna in your apartment use it. Finns bath in there on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Don't be harsh on yourself it gets quite hot in there. My advice is to drink tea after and scrub away all the dirt and dead skin away. You will be amazed how good your skin might look. Don't forget to moisturize it after!

Follow sales in the city. You can get a lot of good offers on food, drinks, clothing, etc..

Don't look at how Finns dress for outside. You will most likely get sick.

Take good care of your feet. Choose shoes that are waterproof. If the weather is warmer when you will arrive choose shoes that are comfortable to walk long distances in. You will be walking a lot.

Most importantly - have fun whatever your are doing. That is why you chose to do this.