Institut d'Etudes Politiques de Bordeaux (IEP BORDEAUX)

I had a great experience in Bordeaux on the whole. But as everything it becomes what you make of it and your own approach and effort to the whole thing. Sure at times I had some ups-and-downs and problems - but I personally recommend to try not to stick too much with other Ersamus and foreign students and instead trying to meet French people. Also to be patient and give it some time to get used to. Also explore the city, find your own favourite spots, try the local food and the brilliant wine etc! Be open and make an effort! Bordeaux is a lovely place if you enjoy good food and wine. It´s very nice situated close to the Basque country and the Atlantic coast and the beaches and all the wine regions of course. On the whole I really recommend trying Bordeaux as it gives you an insight of a typical French town and French ways of living. There is so much more I could add or comment on, so please don´t hesitate to contact me if there is anything!

My level of French was already of a pretty good standard before coming to Bordeaux and I did not have any particular language problems at all, especially in a social context. I did find it quite hard at times when I was studying to follow 2 hours intense lectures and manage to take good notes from them too. I made many French friends and in the end I had really improved my knowledge of slang and how young people speak in general and everyday-French.

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I had th eoption to choose campus accomodation but the rooms and facilities I saw were not nice at all & I really didn´t want to live in them. Besides the campus is quite far out from town which is something to keep in mind as it can be very isolating and not practical for going out etc.

My favourite places were in the centre of town and especially Quartier St Pierre where there are lots of really nice pedestrian streets with cafes, restaurants and pretty squares. Also the centre is good as it´s a rather refined area where everything is close - shops, bars etc. There is a really nice market in spring next to the river and an old warship. It´s open on Sundays & one can buy local foods (cheeses etc) and also have meals at a good price like oysters (very typical of the region) and a glass a of white wine! (...very nice indeed as a sunday brunch ;))