Erasmus Experience in Zaragoza, Spain by Ellie

Why did you choose to go to Zaragoza, Spain?

As a law with languages student, I only had three options to begin with: Zaragoza, Salamanca, and Alcala de Henares. Now I have realised it was fortunate that the places to go to Salamanca had been filled and I was advised against going to Alcala. Therefore I signed up for Zaragoza and haven't looked back since.

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

I am attending university for 10 months - September to June. The Erasmus grant is around 3000 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Zaragoza?

It is slightly different here to back home. The student nights tend to be Thursday, Friday, Saturday unless there is a bank holiday or special occasion. When you do go out there are many bars/clubs which you don't have to pay an entry fee and often all along the same street. There are several clubs too with entry fees and are worth visiting but often students get discounted drinks or entry. Clubs are open late too, some until around 6/7 am. It's a good vibrant city.

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

I would definitely recommend the city to anyone, be it students or friends and family. However, I would unfortunately not recommend the university. It is extremely unorganised and just doesn't feel right to be hosting Erasmus students. There isn't a clear way of communicating to Erasmus students i. e. through emails, therefore we often don't know about timetable changes (which they tend to do a lot) or classroom changes. Some friends have been told modules aren't suitable for Erasmus students but have no other option but to take them. Simply put, it just doesn't seem capable of managing Erasmus students.

What is the food like?

The food in Zaragoza is lovely - typical Spanish cuisine with a twist. In 'el casco' there are plenty of bars (old and new) which offer the best Spanish delicacies or new modern food. My favourite has to be 'el Meli del Tubo' - Spanish tapas with a modern take such as the croquetas. There are also other restaurants such as La Bombonera which has very good BBQ ribs and steaks. In the daytime many coffee shops can serve you a good coffee with a freshly cooked pastry.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Zaragoza?

It found it quite easily.

How much does it cost to live in Zaragoza?

On average rent can be around 300-350 euros per month. Each week I usually spend 25-40 euros on shopping.

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

The first day I arrived I was extremely nervous about speaking to other Spanish citizens; I couldn't even find the words to order a coffee. However we quickly signed up to a language course provided by the university which was great! Sonia our teacher was excellent and helped improve my language and confidence - it consisted of 2 hours everyday for 4 weeks. Sounds like a lot but it did flyby! The citizens will speak Spanish to you and not English which is daunting at first but super helpful. They understand that you're not native so may speak slower or clearer so you understand which is super helpful.

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

I have to travel by plane. I can fly direct from Stansted to Zaragoza or if that's too expensive or difficult I will fly to Madrid or Barcelona and get the bus to Zaragoza. Both are easy for me.

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

I would recommend going to Juepinchos on a Thursday. Lots of bars offer cheap drinks with a small tapas then head to a club after. Kenbo is nearby and plays reggaeton music, but there is also Hide and others not far either. On a Saturday I prefer to go into el Casco and head to Bar Libertad for some chill drinks with a good atmosphere. Again you can head to a club after or carry on a bar crawl in the old town.

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

As I said above I love el Meli del Tubo, La Bombonera and Sawadika. All different types of food but all equally as tasty.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Basilica is a must. Gorgeous architecture with incredible views of Zaragoza if you go up to the top. I am yet to visit the Palacio de Aljaferia and Bull ring but I have heard they are great too. The food market has just re-opened and is in my opinion another gastronomical tourist must-go. Apart from that, walking around the city, over the bridge on the river Ebro is beautiful in itself.

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

Make sure you get to all the main sites. Walk around in your spare time to appreciate the city. Don't be afraid to talk to the citizens, they have a lot of time and patience for you. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and make a few Spanish friends. Generally on your year abroad, do not worry about anything - enjoy the year that you have, make the most of it because it is truly an experience not many people will be able to have so embrace it with open arms.