An incredible Erasmus in Warsaw

Why did you decide to go to Warsaw, Poland?

I wanted to spend my Erasmus in a big city and I preferred capitals. In addition to this, Poland, amongst the other countries in the EU, was the most different and the cheapest place to live.

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How long was your scholarship? How much grant money did you receive?

The Erasmus grant was for 5 months. Poland is in the third category so I received €200 a month and another €100/month with the MEC scholarship. Each region provides additional grant money, in my case Galicia gave me €130 for 9 months.

How was student life in Warsaw?

Incredible. Although it's not known as a typical university city, like Krakow or Lublin, it's full of students. Of all the nationalities, the most copious number was that of Spain. We were everywhere! Also, there were organisations such as ESN, which prepare many events for meeting new people.

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

Of course. In my case, the faculty was amazing, both in its academic level and its organisation. There are many possibilities offered by the University of Warsaw.

What’s the food like in Poland?

I liked it. It's mostly based in soups, vegetables and meats. It's often spicy, understandable given the cold of winter. The most famous dish is Pierogi, a type of small pasty fill with many things. In general it's good, but it's nowhere near as good as Spanish food.

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Was it difficult to find accommodation in Warsaw?

Yes it was quite difficult. Everyone arrived around the same time, at the end of September, and we were all looking for flats. Many landlords don't rent to foreigners, to students or to the Spanish. Not knowing Polish was often a stumbling block, so considering this I recommend signing up to ESN's mentor program, and then will help you find a flat.

What's the cost of living in Warsaw?

The flats were about the same as Spain. My friends and I paid more or less the same, between €250-€300. The rest was all a lot cheaper. I spent around €600 a month but €500 is enough.

How was the language? Did you attend any courses at the university?

Almost impossible. I didn't attend any course but by the end I could understand enough.

What’s the cheapest way to get to Warsaw from your city?

There are no planes from Vigo. So, I took a direct flight from Oporto, or you can stopover in Madrid or London which is also quite cheap.

Where are the best places to go out in Warsaw?

There are so many. My favourite was Klub Park (a must on Wednesdays), Opera Club, under the theatre with a quite cool Eastern vibe, and The View, in the 28th flat of a building with incredible views of the sunrise.

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And eating in Warsaw? What are your favourite places?

Manekin has to be the first stop. Serving sweet crepes and salads, it's amazing and cheap. U Swejka (The Czech) on Mondays for a big steak or Zapiecek for Pierogi. Aïoli for breakfast and Charlotte for a snack.

And for a cultural visit?

All of the Old Town. Also there are quite a few museums and palaces to visit.

Any advice you want to give to future students going to Warsaw?

Enjoy the most out of every single day and if there's something you really want to do, do it, don't "leave it until tomorrow" because when your time runs out you'll regret it.

Safe travels!