Erasmus Experience in Valencia, Spain by Mathilde

Why did you choose to go to Valencia, Spain?

I wanted to learn Spanish without going too far from Belgium.

I had also heard that Valencia was a really cool, young city with a strong university feel.

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How long did you spend there? How much financial support did you receive?

3 months and I got 265 euros per month, with the last month being paid later.

What was the student atmosphere like in Valencia?

Good, a lot of evening events were organised.

I was able to meet other young people through my Belgian friends who I already knew and who were also at university in Valencia with Erasmus. Without them it would have been difficult to meet other young people because I was only doing working experience at the hospital and I wasn't meeting many people.

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

Yes!

Although I don't know much about the university as I only did work experience.

What's the food like in Spain?

Good and not too expensive.

Did you have any difficulties finding accommodation in Valencia?

No, it was very easy.

I would advise going to the place and staying in a youth hostel while you visit apartments and choose the one you want. You can easily find a room in just a few days if you really want to.

The rent is also cheaper than Brussels (100 euros cheaper on average).

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What's the cost of living in Valencia?

The cost of living is low compared to Brussels.

How easy was it to learn the language? Did you go to language lessons organised by the University?

No, I didn't have any language lessons. I didn't have any lessons at all, so perhaps that's why.

What's the most economic way of getting to Valencia from your home town?

By plane. And then from the airport in Valencia there's a metro that takes you directly into the centre of Valencia.

Where would you recommend to go out in Valencia?

All the nights-out organised on Facebook, you've got to sign up.

Russafa for bars.

And for eating in Valencia? Your favourite places?

Russafa, the city centre...

And what cultural visits would you recommend?

The little streets in the centre, the villages surrounding Valencia, the City of the Arts and Sciences, the Tower of Miguelete, the Turia gardens, the Mercado Central in the centre and the Mercado de Colon...

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Any advice for future students at Valencia?

Find accommodation when you get here, and have a basis in Spanish before coming.