My Erasmus experience in Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain, by Afi

Why did I choose to go to Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain?

I lived in Villanueva de la Cañada for one month... but I didn't like it. I was undecided for a longtime over whether to stay in the city or in the Villanueva. I finally chose to try them both, and I don't regret going to live in the centre of Madrid. I found a more or less identical accommodation and the life there is a lot more dynamic.

How long was your stay? How much financial aid did you receive?

I stayed in Madrid for 6 months and I got an Eramsus grant of about 1000 euros.

What was the student atmosphere like in Villanueva de la Cañada?

There is only one "nightclub" in La Canada and there aren't many parties there. Some people go out more than others, you have to make a solid network of friends.

Would you recommend this city and the University of Villanueva de la Cañada to other students?

No, it's too quiet! It's really too quiet! It doesn't go at all with the spirit of Erasmus.

How did you find the country's food?

Delicious! Spicy and good quality!

Did you have any trouble in finding accommodation in Villanueva de la Cañada?

No, but if I were you, I would avoid the student chalet situated in the heart of the city, close to the main bus stop, which has a yellow sign on the front of the building with "Chalet d'etudiante" written on it. The landlord is in the building every day and stops nearly all visitors.

What is the cost of living in Villanueva de la Cañada

It's not expensive! Especially the food and the beers on nights out.

How do you find learning the language? Have you been to language courses organised by the University?

Yes but it's not pushed enough. Make yourself practise with the local people! Even if you are inclined to make friends with people who speak the same language as you.

Whats the cheapest way to get to the Villanueva de la Cañada from your city?

The bus.

Which places would you recommend to have a party in Villanueva de la Cañada?

The Zoé... The Alfonso X el Sabio Univeristy and the Camilo José Cela University ESN (a network of Eramus and International students) party... but they are rarely to my taste! To go out you have to go to Kapital or Shoko in town.

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And what about eating in Villanueva de la Cañada? What are you favorite places to eat?

I cooked at home.

And what cultural visits would you recommend?

The Reina Sofia museum in town centre.

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Do you have any advice to give to future Villanueva de la Cañada students?

Don't live in la Canada but rather in the city. It's where you find the atmosphere, the culture and basically life.