Erasmus Experience in Vilnius, Lithuania by Rachel

Why did you choose to go to Vilnius, Lithuania?

As I mentioned on my blog, it was not my first choice, it kinda came up. I deciced to go there because I wanted to experience a completely different way of living than the one in my country.

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

I would get around 315€ per month which would have been quite a help if my accomodation was cheaper. In general, Lithuania ia a very cheap country and I would highly recommend you to rent an apartament with other erasmus students, which comes really affordable.

What is the student lifestyle like in Vilnius?

Vilnius is a must city for students! Full of Erasmus and international students all year long! There are plenty of events from each university: multicultural, traditional lithuanian, etc that helps you find more friends.

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

Of course! As I mentioned before, Vilnius is a great city for students, as is not big so you have the opportunity to meet students from other universities, just by going out at night!

I didn't attend Vilnius University, I was in another school, but still, I think it is the best university by far in Lithuania.

What is the food like?

uhmmm... Food. Well. As I come from a mediterranean country, there's absolutely no comparison to it. Lithuanian food is dry, there's lot of meat and potato related food - something that I really didn't appreciate it-. I have to admit though, I loved the traditional 'black' bread, their yellow cheese and... the raspberry pies! Ohh and soups. A lot of soups!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Vilnius?

Not at all. I found it via my university. My erasmus coordinator was very helpful with this, as well.

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How much does it cost to live in Vilnius?

I think with around 300€ per month you can not only survive, but party as well! If you rent an apartment with more students, of course it comes cheaper. Food, transportation and drinks are very cheap comparing to western european countries, so if you are concerned about the financial part - don't worry- Lithuania is the right place for you!

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

Well, not really. Eventually you get used to the sound though. Also, I learnt some essentials phrases as long as I was there just not to feel that muxh of a foreigner. Unfortunately, the university I attended in Vilnius, couldn't provide language courses for the semester I was there. Quite disappointing.

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

To travel to Vilnius from Athens, is a long distance, so plane of course. The thing is that it doesn't come cheap, even if you book in advance. Low cost companies, maybe a solution, but be aware there are no direct flights from countries like Greece or Portugal.

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

Salento!

lol. Salento is the most famous club where you 'll mainly find Erasmus students. In there, you are able to meet students from all universities. Of course there are a lot of nice clubs such as: Cocainn & Posh (for Erasmus students), Pantera, Buddha (with both Erasmus and local people). Best way is to ask around, friends, mates locals and you will discover the wildlife of Vilnius!

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

All around Vilnius, you'll find restaurants like Cili pica, Charlie pizza that are cheap and actually not bad. La crepe, is a nice restaurant too (especially the one with the roof restaurant near White Bridge! ). In Akropolis mall, you'll find a chinese and a japanese restaurant as well that both worth a visit. Also, if you find yourself in Belmontas, you gotta try their food and homemade beer. Maybe a bit more expensive, but very tasty.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

First thing to do in Vilnius is walk by Gedimino Prospektas, the main street of Vilnius. Then you'll reach the Cathedral Square which is magnificent! Then Gedimino Castle, of course the beautiful old town and Uzupis. You can check the Lithuanian Opera house -amazing building- The Gates of Dawn, The Museum of Genocide Victims, galleries and so on.

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

Be prepared to face real cold. Especially for students that come from the southern Europe. Get yourself a very good warm jacket and shoes, hats, gloves, scarfs - everything! Lithuania is very very very cold and snowy. But you'll love the white images of snow around you.

Enjoy Vilnius!

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