Moving to a new city for Erasmus might cause mixed feelings. It can be exciting but challenging and a bit scary at first. Here are some useful tips that helped me to make the most out of my time in Barcelona.
Find Accommodation Early
Housing in Barcelona can be competitive. It’s important to secure accommodation before arriving to avoid stress. I secured my room from Uniplaces, but there are other websites as well like Spotahome, Idealista and Housing Anywhere. I recommend to look for places in the Eixample area for the reason that everything is pretty much on a walking distance, since it is a very central area.
Use Public Transport
Barcelona has an excellent metro and bus system. It’s affordable and the easiest way to move around the city. They also have a card that you can use called ‘T-mobilitat’ and for $40 you have unlimited rides to any public transport for 3 months.
Manage Your Budget
Despite what everyone says you can actually live a very affordable life in Barcelona if you plan carefully. You have to balance and manage your spending on food, travel costs, shopping and entertainment. Mercadona is a very well known grocery store chain in Spain which is the cheapest one you can find, so I would suggest to do your grocery shopping there. Also, another thing that might help you save money is arriving at clubs before 1am so you can get in completely free.
Learn Basic Spanish
Even though many people speak English, knowing some Spanish will make your daily life easier and more enjoyable. Don’t worry though you will learn by interacting with Spanish people eventually, so don’t be surprised if by the end of your Erasmus experience you start ordering iced lattes in Spanish.
Make New Friends
Erasmus is all about meeting new people. So don’t be afraid to socialise, join events, talk to classmates, and explore the city together. One thing that might help this process is ESN. ESN organises several events from volleyball on the beach to karaoke events, so people can get together, talk, bond and connect with others who are experiencing the same thing as them.
Barcelona is a city full of opportunities. With the right mindset, your Erasmus experience can become one of the best periods of your life.