Erasmus Experience in Yogyakarta, Universitat Gadjah Mada, Indonesia by Nienke

Why did you choose to go to Yogyakarta, Indonesia?

I already knew that I wanted to study abroad in my third year of my bachelor. Not for a specific minor, but to learn more from other cultures and lifestyles.
South East Asia is what attracted me the most, since it is known for its beauty and richness of culture. There were three countries in South East Asia where I could do my minor. In the end I decided to go to Indonesia because the country itself attracted me the most and because of the good reviews of Gadjah Mada it self.

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

I am here for one semester, so five months. I am currently receiving the Marco Polo scholarship, which is around 200 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Yogyakarta?

It really differs per faculty. But basically everyone is motivated and enthusiastic about the study. They are actively participating during the lectures. But they still do all the assigments and presentations last minute. Everyone is really kind and has a welcoming attitude towards all exchange students.

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

I do recommend it if you want to improve your skills in English and communication. If you are motivated enough to learn about new things from a different perspective I really recommend you to go to Gadjah Mada.

What is the food like?

Most of the time the food is served with rice. It is really nice, but the diversity in food is low. Basically it is always rice witch vegetables and chicken. Most of the meals are really spicy. But you can always ask them to make it not spicy.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Yogyakarta?

It was really easy to find. There are a lot of internet websites and facebook pages offering rooms in Yogyakarta. The University is also happy to help you if you need accomodation

How much does it cost to live in Yogyakarta?

Depends on what kind of activities and trips you are planning to do. But I think my monthly costs in Yogyakarta are around 600 euros, including the rent for my house. But do not worry, you can make it as cheap as possible, since the food and accomodations can be really cheap.

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

Yes, it is really easy. The university is offering language courses for a certain amount of money.

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

By airplane. It is the best/cheapest to book a flight from Amsterdam to Jakarta. And from there a flight to Yogyakarta.

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

Cubic, Platinum, Tasj, Captain urban lounge and sometimes there is a poolparty for exchange students at hotel 101.

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

Almost all restaurants are good, but these in specific: Mediteranea, Pronto, Pikali, holy smokes, Papricano, etc.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are two beautiful temples: Borobodur and the Prambanan. Yogyakarta also has a beautiful nature: a lot of caves, waterfalls, (ancient) vulcanos and riversights.

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

Arrange your visa on time! Gadjah Mada has a lot of difficulties with arranging this on time. In the end I paid around 800 euros extra because I had to fix it all by myself in Singapore. Around 75% percent of the exchange students were also struggling with this issue.