Spotlight on Valencia

If you’ve always dreamt of spending time abroad in another country to work or study, then you won’t want to miss out on an Erasmus+ mobility. The EU’s work and study scheme brings a wealth of remarkable opportunities to further expand your education, further your future career and find out what it’s like to live like a local somewhere you’ve never been before. In fact, Erasmus+ is very accessible, suitable for most people looking for an experience abroad. Thanks to the generous grants, even those from underprivileged backgrounds can indulge themselves in the trip of a lifetime!

All-Year-Round Sunshine and The Friendliest People!

With so many brilliant destinations to choose from, you can take your pick but one of the most popular countries to visit is Spain. Known for its almost year-round sunshine, the friendly people, rich culture and sing-song language that probably comes as no surprise. However, with so many fabulous cities to choose from, it can be hard to choose the right one for you. In this piece, we’re going to explore what Valencia has to offer students and learners – without doubt, it’s one of the most spectacular cities in the world and we’ll tell you why.

Check Your Bilateral University Agreement

A cosmopolitan city, more than 300,000 foreign students descend on Valencia every year, eager to get more than a taste of what it has to offer. If it appeals to you, you’d need to make sure that there’s a bilateral agreement in place between your own university or school and the host university or school in your area of study.  

Lots of Study Opportunities

There are two particular public universities that are popular, the University of Valencia and the Polytechnic University of Valencia, both are notable and recognised internationally. If these universities don’t run your preferred course, there are other institutions that might be suitable. For example, if you want to study art, there’s the Advanced School or Art and Technology. If you want to focus on business, there’s the ESIC Business and Marketing School (amongst others).

Relatively Inexpensive Compared to Other European Cities

Valencia is also a great option for those on a budget because it’s not as expensive as other European countries. The biggest part of your budget will be your accommodation, so it’s a good idea to choose shared accommodation and in doing so, you’ll meet new people because there’s no need to live alone.

Good Transport Links

Getting around the city is easy because of the good public transport. There’s the Metro and you can travel by bus. A monthly bus pass only costs 25 Euros or you could purchase a TuiN Jove Card which gives users a 15% discount per trip.

Eat Out or Eat In Very Well

Eating out needn’t be expensive as there are many restaurants for all budgets plus you could also try your hand at cooking a local dish at home. Just buy your ingredients from a supermarket, and if you’re watching your budget shop at Consum or Mercadona, the least expensive supermarkets in Spain.

So Many Activities to Try

As well as learning and working in Valencia, no doubt you’ll want to enjoy your spare time and Valencia definitely has plenty of leisure activities on offer! When you’re participating in an Erasmus+ mobility in Valencia, there will be plenty to keep you occupied, from the Erasmus+ specially organised excursions to the parties and the night life! There’s a distinct student atmosphere because it is a young city.

First, you’ll love to spend time down at the beach catching some rays! You can sunbathe or take part in some of the water sports. The best beaches are Playa Cabanyal, Playa Las Arenas and Playa de Patacona. After a long day on a sun-drenched Valencia beach, visit the vibrant bars and drink Sangria with your new-found friends. Or why not sample the deliciously mouthwatering ice creams served in cafés along the strip? Don’t forget to taste the national dish Paella and while away the night hours in one of the many clubs. Young Valencians tend to go out late and stay out into the early hours (but don’t forget you have work and university, so you’ll still need your sleep!).

Plenty of Cultural Sites to Admire

While the social side of Valencia is extremely tempting, there’s plenty of culture too. The Central Market is a sight you must see with locals selling fresh fruit, vegetables, Spanish cured meat and if you like street food Spanish style, then this is the place to be. Just go hungry!

You should also visit the City of Arts and Scientists which showcases some exceptional work by famed local architects Felix Candela and Santiago Calatrava. This is especially useful if you’re seeking a career in architecture or design. There’s also an incredible 3D cinema called L’Hemispheric. Do see the old riverbed of the Turia. The river used to split Valencia into two until a storm in 1957 resulted in the waters overflowing into the city centre. The aftermath meant the river had to be rerouted to prevent another catastrophic flood. The empty riverbed is now a park that’s worth visiting, as well as its structure, it’s a piece of Valencian history.

With so much to do and see, and a warm climate almost all year round, Valencia has so much to offer a student or learner. Erasmus+ opens up doors for those looking to try an experience abroad, giving you greater prospects for your future – and you get to improve your Spanish! It’s time to visit Valencia – Hasta Luego mi amigos! Contact our team to learn more about Erasmus+.