You’re dead-set on doing a work or study placement abroad and your university or college is partnered with the Erasmus+ programme. Great choice! Erasmus+ is one of the biggest and most popular mobilities of all. However, where you choose to do your course makes a difference. Of course, you need to find the right school, college or university that suits your needs, in terms of course content – but perhaps you don’t want to do the “usual” destinations, such as the UK, France, Spain, Italy or Germany…Maybe you want to go further afield than Eastern Europe and give Poland, Romania and Hungary a miss? It could be you don’t fancy an extended trip to Croatia or The Czech Republic…? So, where will you go? We’ve put together a list of five, lesser-known Erasmus+ destinations to help you decide. Let’s dive in!
1. Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein is a small country; in fact, it just measures 62 square miles so it’s easy to explore and a safe country to travel to. It’s also close to Austria and Switzerland so if you choose this as your destination you can visit other countries too, which is a good advantage. Furthermore, if scenery is what you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Liechtenstein which is surrounded by the Alps and boasts so many pretty villages that you’ll feel like you’re living in a picture postcard! The people speak German (but you’ll easily get by on English). If of course, you want to improve your German, it’s ideal. For students, it’s safe and secure and a very attractive prospect because of its size, plus you’ll find plenty of international students and interns waiting to welcome you.
2. New Caledonia
This French-owned territory is situated near Australia so if you’re looking for a faraway destination, this one could well be for you! It’s hot and balmy, features stunning beaches and swaying palm trees and there are beautiful cafés, bars and restaurants to enjoy the gourmet food. Sounds tempting right? Yes – we’re right there with you. It’s also relatively affordable for students and learners alike. If you can’t get enough of beach life, enjoy outdoor sports such as climbing, diving and sailing then there’s so much to do in New Caledonia during your spare time! Explore the underwater coral reef, discover canyons, caves and shipwrecks or spend the day watching out for whales. You could even bring a snorkel and marvel at the many tropical fish living beneath the ocean. A whole new world awaits you!
3. Gibraltar
In the middle of sunny Spain and exotic Morocco lies Gibraltar, a British-owned territory which has marvellous weather conditions! Enjoy sun, sea, beach and delicious food, as well as plenty of water-sports, if that’s your bag! This peninsula is famed for being the place where Neanderthal man died out. There’s one great university in Gibraltar, offering a plethora of excellent courses including health science, sport science, life science, earth science, tourism, hospitality and more – this is a great place for a study placement, so why not explore the option some more?
4. The Azores
Owned by the Portuguese, The Azores are a small group of islands that beckon those looking for peace, sun and sand. With 9 islands to explore, and the tallest mountains as a fabulous backdrop, The Azores are a beautiful place to visit. A volcanic area, there’s a lot to do. Visit Praia da Vitoria for stunning white beaches, or spend a day in Horta, a busy marina with plenty to do, including cafés, restaurants and shopping. There’s also the Furnas area, which is renowned for its volcanic rock that bubbles from time to time. Home to one university with plenty of options to choose from, the area is very safe too – and easy to get around.
5. Aland
In the Baltics you’ll find Aland, which is located between Finland and Sweden (meaning you can also hop across to these two fascinating countries when you have some free weekends during your work or study placement). This Finnish province has some incredible landscape to marvel at. An interesting area, it has its own tax system, flag and postage stamps. It’s also home to over 6,500 small islands! Aland is easy to get around, and if you want to visit the other islands, there are bridges and ferries. Most people cycle, so don’t forget to practice before you get there. There’s one university in Aland, and it’s very welcoming to people from outside the area, looking for a study placement. Most courses are taught in Swedish but there are some English-speaking courses too.
Final Words
If any of the above feel like a great destination for your Erasmus+ work or study placement, then we can help make your dreams come true! We organise work and study placements for schools, colleges and universities, organising everything on your behalf and even helping with your application forms. Get your careers’ office or Erasmus+ representative to talk to us and let’s make it happen! You can contact us by clicking here.
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