Erasmus Experience in Valencia, Spain by Gavin

Why did you choose to go to Valencia, Spain?

I studied Sport at my home University and wanted to study abroad. I knew Valencia had a link with my home University so I got into contact with them and was accepted to study a combination of Sport and Business.

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

I went for the full academic year. From memory, I received a standard student loan for the year, plus a monthly bursary which every student received as an incentive to study abroad (I believe this was approx 250euros per month, which was a lot)!

What is the student lifestyle like in Valencia?

Lots of early lectures but the majority of lectures are finished by 12pm, allowing the rest of the day to be spend at the beach!

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

Though there were a few issues with the International relations office at the University, I couldn't speak highly enough of the city. After acclimatising, it became a great city to live in (I am already looking for ways to return)!

What is the food like?

The food is varied and can be cheap if you want it to be (10 euros can buy a three course meal with bread and a drink), or you can spend more at restaurants located by the beach.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Valencia?

We used a student lettings company and had a flat already secured by the time we arrived in Valencia. There was only a refundable deposit to pay.

How much does it cost to live in Valencia?

It is a fairly cheap city to live in, with the option to spend more on food/drink if you want to. Supermarkets are very cheap compared to England.

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

The language was hard and I found that European students who already spoke another language found it a lot easier to pick up Spanish. I attended a language school near la Mestalla which was fairly cheap, and gave me a certificate of completion at the end.

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

I used Ryanair to travel between Valencia and London Stanstead as this seemed to be the cheapest airline.

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

Though I was more into the cultural side than the nightlife, from my experience the nightlife was very different to England (pre drinks started at 12, and went to clubs at 2-3am) but entertaining!

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

Any restaurant by the beach but closest to the harbor are recommended. Bar-B-Cutie can be used as a cheap alternate to tapas (american food, 9 euros for a full 3 course meal).

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Climb the cathedral stairs on a day that isnt too hot for a great view of the city. Also I was lucky to attend many Valencia CF games as the tickets were very cheap (approx 10-20 euros per game). Climb Torres de Serrano for more good views. Worth getting a tour of the bull ring (Plaza de Toros). And of course the beach! Transport links are cheap so visiting other cities is cheap and easy via Renfe.

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

Once you get acclimatised it becomes easy so stick with it!