Erasmus Experience in Zagreb, Croatia, by Marie-Clare

Why did you choose to go to Zagreb, Croatia?

I had been to Croatia twice previously for holidays and loved it and it just so happened. My home University had a partnership with the University of Zagreb.

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

I am here for one semester, however in some courses, like the one I'm in you are able to apply for the second semester also. I received an Erasmus grant of 1197 euro, which is paid in two instalments. I also received a student loan of over £2000 from my student loan company in the UK.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Zagreb?

Student lifestyle is great in Zagreb. ESN (Erasmus Student Network) here in Zagreb regularly organize parties, trips and days out around the city for Erasmus students and it's always low cost. There are plenty of bars and nightclubs here for people who like to party and there's always something going on.

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

Yes, it's a lively city and the people are friendly and helpful. Her in Zagreb is nice atmosphere so it's a nice place to study and make new friends.

What is the food like?

Obviously, I found it different from the food back home and it takes a while to get used to not being around your own comforts, but the food is fine. Croatians like to eat a lot of meat so expect a lot of meat dishes.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Zagreb?

No, I was able to find my apartment before I came here. There is plenty of choice in Zagreb if you choose to rent privately.

How much does it cost to live in Zagreb?

It's very cheap to live in Zagreb, I find I can live quite easily on 20-40 euro a week. Rent and utility bills are also a lot cheaper here than back home so I find I have extra money to spend once from the budget for the important stuff.

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

Croatian seems like a difficult language for me as people speak very fast but I have learnt a few phrases just from every day living here. There are courses available in the University for Erasmus students.

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

It's definitely not easy and can be quite expensive depending on when you book but I flew from Belfast to London, London to Zagreb. It was an overnight connection with British Airways and I found at the time I booked they were the cheapest.

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

It really depends on what type of music you like, there is lots of choices, some of the most popular clubs are "VIP", "Masters", "Pepermint" and then you have squat clubs like "Medika" which always makes for an interesting night.

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

I haven't actually eaten in a nice fancy restaurant here yet, but one of my favourite places to eat is California Burrito Bar, I've even got some of my friends hooked on it!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

My favourite place to visit is the old town of Zagreb, beautiful, cobbled streets with an amazing view of the whole city and this is where a few interesting museums are which are not expensive at all.

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Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Zagreb?

If you do come on Erasmus, throw yourself into student life, go to the parties and trips that will be organized for you, as this is the best way to meet new people and make good friends. It can seem quite daunting especially if you are shy, but the Erasmus spirit is great here and you'll enjoy every minute of it.