Erasmus experience in Zaragosa, Spain by Mathilde

Why did you chose to go to Zaragoza, Spain?

It happened completely randomly! I didn't know the city at all, I chose it while looking at pictures on the Internet and I was telling myself that it shouldn't be too hot, like in Sevilla for example (that is the reason why I didn't want a too south-oriented city). It was my fourth choice out of 5 so I didn't really think I would actually go there... In the end, I absolutely have no regret being here! The atmosphere is amazing, the city is really nice, neither too big nor too small, there is everything we need and the people there are really nice.

How long is your stay? How much are the financial aids you perceive?

I am staying 2 semesters. I have only be granted the Erasmus scholarship, which is up to 150€ per month and that I will get quite late. However, there are a lot of others scholarships and their payment can be earlier than the one from our university.

How is the student life there?

Awesome, especially the Erasmus one. The organism ESN which is taking care of Erasmus students is really great, a lot is planned for us like parties, sport, trips.. The events sometimes lose interest but we regain motivation thanks to each other and the Erasmus counselors are always there to stand by our sides.

Nevertheless, even besides the Erasmus ring, the students are open and ready to help. Sometimes we could think they are not interested in us but this is not the case, we just have to go towards them really. They are very outgoing.

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

Yes, honestly, it is an Erasmus destination worth to be better known. I really advise you to go there, even for a semester. Moreover, you will hear and learn traditional Castillan (never heard people talking Aragonese yet). Also, the bus system is great, 3-4 hours and you can be in Valencia, Barcelona, Madrid, to Pais Vasco.. really convenient! A lot of beautiful landscapes and sites are to visit in the countryside, relatively close to Zaragoza.

About the University, there are all type of courses, the teachers are all ears and will help us if we have problems to follow.

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How is the food in this country?

Tapas, tapas, thousands of tapas! You can find everything you want in terms of food, for any taste. Same for paellas, beverages... We eat well here, if you were going to do a diet, bad start.

Did you have any problem to find an accommodation in Zaragoza?

Not at all. There is a lot of offers for (pisos compartidos) in Zaragoza, a bit of everywhere in the city. It is very easy to find or change an accommodation since there are a lot of students.

How is the cost of living in this city?

More than correct. It is possible to eat healthy for 7€, accommodations are obviously cheaper than in Paris, and the nightlife is cheaper, especially for Erasmus. It is clear that prices are relatively lower than in France.

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How is the language learning? Have you been to language classes organized by the University?

I haven't had these classes because I am already studying English and Spanish. However, I know that a lot of Erasmus students have had language classes before the classes begun, for 2 or 3 weeks, and they learned quickly. The quickest way is to socialize with native people in daily life. We all improved our vocabulary and accent this way, it is the most useful way to evolve. An advice, do not only stay with people from your nationality.

What is the most economic way to head to Zaragoza from your city?

There is none.. Paris/Beauvais to Zaragoza flights are available between April and October. Otherwise, you need to go by bus to Madrid or Barcelona to take the plane for Paris. For those who live in the South of France, there are buses or you can split cars to go back to Pau/Toulouse, etc.

What places would you recommend for partying?

Kenbo and Babia are amazing clubs! Commercial/reggaeton music in general. The Supernova is also an awesome place as well as The Oasis!

Jauja and Temple 5 are also good to have a drink.

What are your favorites places to eat?

I would advise the Artigas pub near the San Francisco campus. Loads of tapas for cheap.

Another excellent tapas bar, Vittorino. Small but absolutely worth to give a go.

Casa Juanico, Heroismo and Los Rotos are also really good. For a coffee or a tea, I would recommend Kalalumpur or Momo.

An advice to give to future Zaragoza students?

Do not keep among yourselves and... Enjoy!