Universität Wien (UNIVIE)

Food and accomodations in universities in the states are probably the most expensive anywhere- dining hall meal plan is ridiculous in itself, so these things were cheaper in Vienna. Phone bills were of course worse since I had to talk to my mom, whom I'm very close to, internationally (only once a week though). Nightlife was probably more expensive because I simply went out more in Europe than in the states- it was more interesting to me to go out there- movies are also more expensive (not by much though). Travel was of course more expensive because the opportunity to travel to other countries is so available- where would I go in Maryland- Delaware? There is expensive shopping in Vienna- shoes, clothes; so it is possible to make the time hear outrageous if you are shopper. I am not at all so I could be thrifty and happy. I did know some unfortunate souls who couldn't stay away from Mariahilferstrasse (main shopping street) for more than a day. Travel I was thrifty with too- not by choice but because I didn't have cash most of the time to go anywhere. By the way, most people who study abroad do- I didn't know that until my fellow Americans were gone for jaunts to Paris or Amsterdam on a pretty regular basis. God bless you if that's you, but my ass was in Vienna staring at my Bulgarian roommate most of the time- which though difficult at times, made my experience fabulous, much more authentic than if I had all the dough to leave when I wanted.

Because I live with my parents in Madrid. Housing is more or less so expensive as in Madrid, nightlife is more expensive, and I travelled a lot.

The apartment was more expensive than the one I have at home. I also travelled more during my exchange term than usually.

Obviously bc travel to and from was more expensive. Also wanted to make the most of my year out so travelled a lot, and went out a lot.

DC is expensive in comparison to Vienna. I travelled a lot in Austria which I do not do in DC.

I did spend a little bit more than at home. Mainly on my "Erasmus-style" nightlife...