Postcard from Coimbra, Portugal

What should not be missed?

The beaches! Portugal has to offer the most beautiful beaches in Europe. I spent most of my weekends exploring coastal towns, swimming, surfing or simply enjoying the sea breeze in one of the thousands beach cafés.

What is your favourite place to eat/drink?

My favorite place was actually a tiny café next to the well-known big stairs in front of the University of Coimbra. They had the finest selection of cakes and coffee for less than 2€. Therefore, I spend a lot of time there drinking coffee in the morning before work, catching up with new-found friends or simply taking home cakes (especially Pastel de Nata- the very best sweets in Portugal) for my flat mates.

What was your best experience during the stay?

I got the chance to take a long weekend off from work and to travel to São Miguel, the largest island in the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores. For me, this volcanic island was somehow magical. With dozens of rainbows every day, hot springs, dolphins and whales, tropical forests, amazing hiking trails and the kindest and most welcoming residents, this island has so much to offer and I felt like I was in another world.

What impact will your stay abroad have on your future career?

During my stay I met people from all over the world and some of them couldn’t speak English very well. Therefore, I had to switch from German to English to Spanish to Portuguese, which wasn’t an easy thing to do since I’m not fluid in any of those languages. This language practice helps me a lot in my job in research now, as I work with international people and sometimes one language isn’t enough to communicate.

What piece of advice would you give to future exchange students/staff?

Travel in the country you go to as much as possible, meet international and local people, enjoy the parties, the food and the wine and just have a great time!