My Erasmus Experience in Vienna, Austria - by Cassandra

Why did you choose to go to Vienna, Austria?

I was interested by the language (German), and the city is beautiful.

How long did your scholarship last? How much were you paid?

One academic year (so ten months). The amount of financial support I got was laughable (it depends on the Autonomous Community you come from and if you have the General State Scholarship too) - I received 230 euros per month.

What's the student life like in Vienna?

Brilliant. It depends a lot on how good you are at the language and who you end up being friends with. If you're doing an Erasmus exchange, make sure you don't just end up hanging out with other people from Spain.

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

Definitely, I learned loads there.

What's the food like in Vienna?

Austrian food is nice: it's like a mix of Hungarian, German and Czech (the surrounding countries) food. It's expensive to eat out in Vienna though, especially in good quality restaurants.

Did you find it hard to find somewhere to live in Vienna?

First, I looked at the student halls of residences which the university recommended (OeAD). I wouldn't recommend you live there. You'll end up just living with other Spaniards and I don't think this is the point of Erasmus. I recommend having a look at WIHAST - it's a student halls association based in Vienna, but there are always spaces for Erasmus students and their rooms are a lot cheaper than OeAD's.

Finding a flat in Vienna without actually being in Vienna is very hard, as they always want to meet the person who will be renting the room, so you can't just do it over the internet.

How expensive is everyday life in Vienna?

It's not a cheap city, but if you're careful with what you spend then it doesn't always end up being as expensive as people often think. You have to compare the prices of different items in different supermarkets, and go to the weekly markets to buy your fruit and vegetables.

I usually spent around 500 euros per month (230 euros on rent, plus transport, food and going out). Sometimes I spent more, and sometimes less.

How are you finding the language? Have you signed up to a language class at the university?

I could speak German before I came, so I didn't go to any language courses. I would really recommend that you try to learn the language, since the people there are very open and friendly if you speak to them in German. Depending on what you study, classes are usually in German and they treat you like any other student, with the same exams, the same internships, etc. It depends a lot on your career choice however.

What's the cheapest way of getting to Vienna from your home city?

By plane. You can fly from Barcelona with Vueling, Flyniki (owned by Air Berlin), or Austrian Airlines.

You always get a 23kg suitcase included on Flyniki and Austrian Airlines, and if you book your flights well in advance, they aren't more expensive than Vueling.

There's also the option of flying with Ryanair to Bratislava (which is an hour away from Vienna by bus or by train), though I never did this.

What are the best places for partying in Vienna?

It depends on what you're into. You won't need any help when you're there: within a month you'll already be clued up. In summary, for Erasmus parties:

• Monday: Ride Club
• Tuesday: U4 (current music and rock)
• Wednesday: Loco (karaoke)
• Thursday: Prater Dome (student discount if you get there before midnight)
• Friday, Saturday, Sunday... everywhere!

If you like pub atmosphere and rock-indie music, try Chelsea (also to watch the football).

What about eating out in Vienna? What are your favourite places?

There are loads!

What does Vienna have to offer in terms of culture?

Everything in the guidebooks.

Do you have any advice for future students coming to Vienna?

Vienna is brilliant, you'll love it!