Twenty years ago, studying business abroad was only for the adventurous or the downright quirky. Today, it’s increasingly commonplace. Why? Because employers of all sizes are now searching for – and fighting over - the truly international employee: the one who really understands how business is done in key markets around the globe.
Those who study abroad while they’re young have international experience before they’ve even reached the workplace. Already ahead of their peers, they’ll be multilingual and have an increased understanding of different cultures.
But what is it actually like to study abroad and what is the right location – or locations – for you? How is student life in Ireland different to student life in India, for example? What does a MacBook Pro cost in Australia compared to Austria? How much will a cappuccino set you back in Budapest compared to Beijing?
In an effort to access their invaluable advice and experiences, we surveyed students from 29 leading business schools and universities around the world who are part of CEMS, the Global Alliance in Management Education. As part of their Master’s in International Management, the students are required to spend at least one term at a partner school in another country.
For every location, we asked local students: What are the three key things you think someone coming to study in your home country should know before they arrive?
And we asked visiting students: What are the three key things you wish you had known before you began studying at a school outside your home country?
So before you get those visa applications sent off, find the study destination that suits you. Our country by country guide begins here...
Australia (Sydney)
Despite not being the capital of Australia, Sydney is the country’s most populous city – and arguably Australia’s most famous (sorry Melbourne). From the iconic Opera House overlooking the world’s largest natural harbour, through to its string of scenic beaches, this coastal metropolis is a student’s paradise. As well as taking advantage of the city’s laid back beach lifestyle, international students also benefit from Sydney’s cosmopolitan culture and liberal attitude toward life. Australia ranks as one of the best places to live in the world by all indices of income, human development, healthcare and civil rights, has the world’s 12th largest economy and is fifth globally in terms of income per capita. And where once, the country could be accused of being a little detached from the rest of the world, as a member of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) forum, Australia is now increasingly influential within the world’s most dynamic and exciting region.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$2,026 / $1,447
Cappuccino: US$3.35
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,144
Climate The average temperature for the year in Sydney is 64.0°F (17.8°C). The warmest month, on average, is February with an average temperature of 73.0°F (22.8°C). The coolest month on average is July, with an average temperature of 53.0°F (11.7°C).
Advice from local CEMS students from the University of Sydney Business School
Madeleine Brown
Australians love the concept of 'mateship' that basically means friendship. It is common to see groups of friends regularly sharing their leisure activities, for example drinking beer, playing sports, having BBQs, going on day trips etc.
Stick to a pre-planned budget. Food, drinks and rent are expensive compared to the rest of the world, so you’ll benefit from budgeting. Visiting Chinatown (close to campus) will give you some cheap grocery market options.
Make friends with locals who have cars or use ‘carshare’. The public transport system is limited and unreliable so you will definitely need a car to really explore the whole city and surrounding areas.
Sport is a massive part of Australian culture. Whether it is playing competitively, recreationally, or just watching it on TV.I would recommend joining in the fitness culture by joining a team or two, or even just attending games or matches as a supporter.
Edward Dostine
Extracurricular sports, political, academic and cultural clubs are a great way to get to know local Australian students, and in doing so get to know more about Australian culture. Students can go sailing, skiing, surfing, play football, learn to scuba dive or even be in a student play all at a discounted price and all through local clubs - an opportunity not to be missed!
You CAN live on the beach! You can enjoy summer by choosing to live in the Eastern suburb beaches like Bronte, Tamma and Bondi. Although the locals complain about our public transport it is reliable and makes for a short 40min commute from the beach to the uni. If you have come to USYD for the lifestyle as well as the academia, this is a real option to consider.
Travel around Australia. Plan it beforehand with other classmates and work around your semester timetable. The east coast is the common route from Sydney to Byron Bay until Cairns and the Great Barrier, however in between there are pristine beaches just 2 hours north or south from the city. Get in a hire car or make friends with the locals and make the most of our coastline. It would be rude not to.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to the University of Sydney Business School
Susanna Garancini
You have to try surfing at least once. It's amazing, but also really tough! Students often organize a 3-day Surf Camp close to Sydney where you can learn the basic rules of this amazing sport (and hopefully stand up!) and enjoy a truly Australian experience with your classmates!
Watch out for the winter weather. Despite what you might think, winter in Sydney is really not that warm, so pack accordingly.
Local cuisine doesn't mean Oz cuisine. Apart from the famous "salty pie", Australian food does not really exist! In the city, you will find just Asian or European cuisine restaurants.
Austria (Vienna)
With a rich cultural heritage that includes the works of Mozart and Schubert, spectacular mountain scenery and the lingering legacy of Sigmund Freud, you could be forgiven in thinking that Austria contributes more to international tourism than it does to international business. Though the tourist industry does make up a large chunk of the country’s GDP (9% to be exact), Austria’s geographic location at the heart of Europe and along the Danube trade routes has helped develop a strong industrial export sector, emphasising it’s strategic importance in Europe. The capital city Vienna is home to a number of international organisations such as the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe. The country’s high standard of living has helped draw in many settlers from overseas. According to Eurostat, over 15% of Austria’s population is made up of foreign-born residents – the majority of whom were born outside of the EU.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$872 / $652
Cappuccino: US$3.73
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,337
Climate The average temperature for the year in Vienna is 52.5°F (11.4°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 71.1°F (21.7°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 34.2°F (1.2°C).
Advice from local CEMS students from the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU)
Alex Wallner
Austrian’s are more friendly and helpful then they might seem at first sight so don’t hesitate to ask for help or information. Moreover, Austrians are NOT German; we are Austrians - somewhere between Germans and Italians. Moreover, Vienna is one of very few capital cities that produces its own wine. It is a pure “dancing city” with more than 200 balls hosted every year.
Enjoy Vienna's rich cultural and recreational offer (e.g. Donauinsel) There is also a growing party and club scene. Also the famous Donaufestival is one of Europe’s biggest open air music festival hosted each June with free entrance.
Bettina Andrea Schauperl
Vienna is big on tradition - be it music, art or opening hours. While residing in the city with the highest quality of living in the world, you will have a variety of cultural offerings at your fingertips. However, this also means that certain traditions and practices have not changed here: Shops are closed on Sundays. Smoking in bars is still possible. And Viennese waiters are still as grumpy as ever.
Do not make the mistake of confusing Austrians with Germans, learn the difference between a Seidel and Krügerl of beer, and don’t miss out on a typical Viennese ball while attending university here.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU)
Joske de Ligt
Look forward to living in the city with the world's best quality of living (Mercer 2014). You cannot turn a corner without being taken aback by yet another architectural masterpiece. So visit a lot of pretty buildings (do not forget Schloss Schonbrunn, which is not quite in the center), go to the opera, and make city trips to the equally stunning cities nearby: Budapest, Prague and Bratislava.
Discover the traditional Austrian dish called Kaiserschmarren. These are basically fluffy cut-up pancakes with delicious toppings, served in ridiculous quantities. If you pick your restaurant well, you will get them served the traditional way: still in the pan. Wherever you go though, you will get Austrian hospitality.
Asha Vyas
Vienna is like the New York of Central Europe. There is always something to do for all ages, many great restaurants and cafes, lively nightlife, and many interesting people from Austria and abroad. As a result, Vienna is one of the cities where I can say that I would permanently relocate to after finishing CEMS.
Mark Appleby
Speaking German is not essential in Vienna as most of the locals speak very good English, but it is always appreciated if they see you making an effort and I have found it has made it easier for me to settle in because I can speak the language. Overall, it has been a very easy adjustment moving to Vienna.
Vienna is an ideal city to study in. The pace of life is quite relaxed for a capital city, there are plenty of cultural things to do, there are lots of parks and green spaces, and it is relatively affordable. Vienna is also reasonably compact and the public transport is one of the best that I have experienced which makes it a very easy city to get around!
Belgium (Louvain)
A nation famed around the world for praline chocolate and artisan beer, Belgium has been on the global stage for much more than delighting taste buds. Home to the headquarters of the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), the country has three official languages – Dutch, French and German – and has been leading sectors for generations. Belgium published the world’s first printed newspaper, it’s one of the rare countries with compulsory education up to 18 years old (which is the highest in the world), and has been working on closing the gender gap. In fact, Belgium has the highest proportion of female ministers in the world. In 2000, this stood at 55%. Prior to this, in 1921, Belgium became one of the earliest countries to have a female parliamentarian. Still forging new ground, the city of Louvain-la-Neuve itself is newly born with a large number of students studying in the area.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$877 / $791
Cappuccino: US$3.17
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,373
Climate The average temperature for the year in Louvain is 50.0°F (10°C). The warmest month, on average, is August with an average temperature of 64.0°F (17.8°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 36.0°F (2.2°C).
Advice from local CEMS students from the Louvain School of Management
Tristan Delannoy
Plan ahead for finding accommodation. If you want to live in a ‘kot’ (shared student flat), you have to take care of it a few months before the beginning of the semester. The competition to get one is quite strong.
Don’t be scared by the French/Dutch language conflict. Belgian people are open-minded and have a pretty good level of English, which will make your stay easier.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to the Louvain School of Management
Anne Margrethe Vik
Take advantage of every opportunity to travel during the weekends. Belgium has some really nice cities like Ghent, Brugge, Antwerp and Mechelen, and is well situated for travelling in Europe.
Belgian students can be very untidy and noisy. At the same time they seem very easy going and social, but for some international students this might be a cultural shock. For example, I think I would have a problem living in a house that is constantly disorganised and loud.
Asha Vyas
Teaching methods can be very different, so be prepared and work hard. Louvain uses a traditional method of teaching where the professor gives a formal lecture and the students are required to take notes and review them for a final exam which normally carries a significant weight in the final grade. I had become quite accustomed to the case method at Ivey, including contribution as well as case exams. As a result, it was initially difficult to switch to this method. So double the effort that you normally would to complete work, and find a learning style that suits you.
Brazil (São Paulo)
The world’s fifth-most-populous country and its seventh-largest economy is in the global spotlight as the host of both the World Cup and the Olympics. But while year after year Brazil charms domestic and international crowds with the Rio Carnival - considered the world’s biggest street party - rival Sao Paolo is geared up for business, as home to the second largest stock exchange in the world and much of Brazil’s banking and finance industry. The city’s motto ‘’Non ducor, duco’’ translates as "I am not led, I lead’’ and the city is colloquially known as ‘Cidade da Caroa’ (city of drizzle). Despair not however, as the weather pales in comparison next to Sao Paolo’s excellent food, internationally renowned architecture, and cosmopolitan population.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$789 / $570
Cappuccino: US$2.06
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$2,156
Climate The average temperature for the year in São Paulo is 69.0°F (20.6°C). The warmest month, on average, is February with an average temperature of 75.0°F (23.9°C). The coolest month on average is July, with an average temperature of 63.0°F (17.2°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at EAESP-FGV
Flavio Soriano
Any compliments you make about Brazil will delight Brazilians (the more original the better) and make you instantly loved. Brazilians tend to have very low self-esteem about their country, especially because they are constantly comparing it with Europe and the US.
Brazilians touch each other a lot when socialising. Greetings often involve hugs, and girls always kiss on the cheek instead of shaking hands. Get used to it.
Learn basic Portuguese before arriving. Good English speakers are as rare as snow in Brazil, especially in the services sector that you need the most to survive.
Before booking any trips, get a seasoned Brazilian traveller to comment on your plans. It can save you money and help avoiding basic mistakes.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to the EAESP-FGV
Brent Johns
Get ready for a culture shock in the big city. The small, rural town in South Western Ontario that I grew up in could not be more different than living in the heart of a metropolitan city with a population of 20 million people. Individuals that choose to study at FGV should be aware that the school is smack dab in the middle of Sao Paulo, the economic heart of Brazil. The hustle and bustle of city life is evident and individuals should expect a Latin American urban environment. Personally, I love big cities. I love the thousands of activities that are presented every night in Sao Paulo. I love witnessing the extensive contrasts a city of this magnitude offers. And I love hearing the differences in people’s stories as they go about their day-to-day activities that ultimately contribute to this massive metropolitan. That being said, the beach is only an hour away by bus and offers a great get away from this rollercoaster of a city.
Don't expect your dollars to go far in Brazil. Many individuals see the developing world as a place where developed currencies will reach far and provide an exclusive, five-star lifestyle. The fact is Sao Paulo is expensive. Perhaps, I was relying on my previous expatriate experiences too heavily but I thought my Canadian savings would go much further here in Sao Paulo. With high import tax on many goods, a huge geographic landscape to travel, and relatively expensive rental prices, it is vital that students budget accordingly when choosing to come live, study, and travel in Brazil.
Be prepared for bureaucracy and slow processes. Generally, Brazilian people are laid-back, easy-going, and extremely hospitable people. From the moment you arrive in Brazil you will be greeted with friendly smiles and a general curiosity of why you have chosen to come to Brazil. Brazilians will be the first to point out that ‘getting things done’ takes a little longer here in Brazil and that is a fact. Whether it is waiting in line at a super market, processing paperwork for a visa, or having to wait 20 minutes for a meeting to start because of ‘traffic’, living in Brazil will teach you that patients really is a virtue.
Edward Dostine
Don't rely on others speaking English. To get the most out of the semester here do yourself a favour and learn some Brazilian Portuguese before you come. Be aware, the language test for Portuguese is Portuguese from Portugal which is a completely different dialect of Portuguese found in Brazil, this was/ still is very frustrating for me.
Learn to appreciate that this is not your country and things happen differently here. Brazil isn’t efficient. Since my arrival here all I have done is lost time. Nothing here happens fast, if at all. This is understandable when you consider the sheer mass of people that live here (Sao Paulo has the population of all Australia). You will have many T.I.B. (This Is Brazil) moments when simple problems are over complicated by bureaucracy and a lack of common sense.
Travel! Get buses everywhere, the beach is close, the workload relaxed, go see this amazing country.
Rasmus Bonde Greis
Be prepared for a loud and tactile nation. People here are anything other than quiet. The first days at campus you will think, “Why does this building have such bad acoustics?” But after visiting other places you realize that people do not talk, they shout. And it’s not just the talking that’s loud, in Brazil cars horns are used as frequently as the breaks. Personal space seems non-existent, and it is common to touch another person during a conversation. Kissing on the cheek is a must. The latter is easy to get used to. This also makes the Brazilian people very open, so it is easy to make friends in Brazil.
Acai & juice but no sugar! When it comes to food Brazil will treat you like a king, as long you appreciate quality meat and fresh fruit. Do not miss Açaí na tigela, which is a mashed frozen Amazonian fruit which gives you magic power – or almost – it tastes great with banana, strawberries or mango on top. Another must is to try the large varieties of fresh juices that every little street cafe offers, but if you want to taste the real fruit and avoid diabetes, then always remember to order it without sugar (Sem açúcar).
Canada (London)
According to a 2012 NBC report, Canada is the most educated country in the world. Though images of ice hockey and craft beer may come to mind, the country is one of the world’s top trading nations – punching well above its population size in economic terms. With abundant natural resources and well-developed trade networks, its economy is one of the largest on Earth. In fact, 2011 saw Canada ranked first by Forbes for business investment. Named after the English capital, London in Ontario, Canada, is home to 45,000 full-time post-secondary students from all over the world. It’s a city alive with activity – festivals, orchestras, galleries – with an economy bolstered by medical research, insurance, manufacturing, and information technology.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$887 / $784
Cappuccino: US$2.83
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$915
Climate The average temperature for the year in London is 44.0°F (6.7°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 68.0°F (20°C). The coolest month on average is February, with an average temperature of 18.0°F (-7.8°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at the Ivey Business School
Asha Vyas
Our winters are just as cold as everyone thinks! For example, this past winter saw temperatures going down to -40°F or slightly lower. This means that it is important to bring appropriate clothing from home, or to buy some when you arrive here. It is understandable that winter clothing can be expensive, especially for one semester, however, there are multiple platforms like Kijiji, eBay, Facebook Marketplace etc. where you can sell your clothing at the end of the semester. It will be worth it!
Do not be afraid to ask for help. In some countries, the prevailing culture can prevent a foreigner from asking a local for help because they may not seem open to tourists, or to interrupt their schedule for even a minute. However, in Toronto, many people have a more relaxed attitude towards tourists, and would be happy to help or to give tips about a particular area. In London, especially in the campus area that is primarily students, locals will have no problems taking a few minutes to steer you in the right direction or to chat about your home country. We love meeting new people!
Give yourself plenty of time when trying to travel around. Neither London nor Toronto have the sophisticated transit systems that many European or Asian cities have. They are not very extensive and many times stop running around midnight. As a result, you should give yourself an extra half an hour when trying to reach your destination. There are also many more service disruptions than you maybe be used to, so once again, be prepared to leave a 30-minute buffer.
Brent Johns
Adapting to the case study method. Regardless of past experiences solving real life business problems in the interactive case methodology setting, students should be willing to adapt their learning styles in order to participate in this challenging but fun learning experience. I, for one, had no experience in the case learning methodology before beginning my semester at Ivey but the benefits and exciting challenges of this learning methodology became evident quickly. As the business case methodology relies heavily on learning from your peers in your class, the CEMS environment adds an exciting twist and allows individuals to understand and analyze how business problems are perceived and solved across international mindsets.
Sina Vaziri
The rules of social engagement. Canadians are very social and outgoing and can be considered more direct compared to many other cultures in the world. So get ready to go out and meet a lot of interesting people, whether it is at a local bar in London or a sports game on a weekend trip to Toronto.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to the Ivey Business School
Laoise Kiely
Find out about the career management office. You can work with them on your CV and interview skills, as well as be informed about recruiting events at Ivey.
Preparing for the wintery spring. Before going to Canada I was unsure as to how cold it would really be, but even though we experienced the coldest winter (-40!) the cold was very manageable. It does not get in the way of socializing as long as you have a warm coat and boots. Be prepared to wear these things as a uniform for your whole semester if you come in ‘spring term’ (should be called winter term). I was lucky that I lived near a direct bus to Ivey, I think this is very important for exchange students to consider if they are coming for the spring term.
Cosima Bader
Dress code is different. In a Swiss business school, I was used to dressing up for class, and dressing down for going to a student bar. In Canada, it’s the reverse: Sweatpants, Yoga Pants and even Pyjamas are acceptable and common attires for university, whereas attending the local bar specializing in 1-dollar beers from cheap plastic cups seems to require Canadian girls to wear full hair and make-up in the fashion of an MTV reality show, stiletto heels, and miniskirts without tights and no jackets even in snow covered streets of -15°C. Gentlemen on the other hand only need a lumberjack shirt and a baseball cap in order to be considered fashionably dressed for their evening out.
Domestic travel costs can be high. Unlike the US, it is very expensive to travel inside Canada (by either bus, rail or plane) - it is cheaper to fly to Cuba on an all-inclusive trip than to take a domestic flight from Toronto to Vancouver. Also, Greyhounds are always late.
Chile (Santiago)
Chile is one of South America's most stable and prosperous nations. Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s the country had the fastest-growing economy in Latin America thanks, in part, to the rising price of copper. The Chuquicamata and Escondida copper mines are the world’s largest, and have done much to swell Chilean state coffers. Today, Chile is considered by the World Bank to be a 'high-income economy'. The privatisation of industries and increasing levels of agricultural exports have done much to further boost the economy. Chile is highly urbanized, with 40% of the population living in the Santiago area. The capital is the cultural, political and financial centre of Chile and generates 45% of the country's GDP. Those wanting to get to grips with Chile’s cultural side can take a trip to Easter Island, located off Chile’s West coast and home to a thousand giant figures, known as Moai, carved in stone.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$414 / $420
Cappuccino: US$2.36
MacBook Pro 13” Retina approx US$1,795
Climate The average temperature for the year in Santiago is 58.0°F (14.4°C). The warmest month, on average, is January with an average temperature of 70.0°F (21.1°C). The coolest month on average is July, with an average temperature of 47.0°F (8.3°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Universidad Adolfo Ibànez
Dominique Lacassie Viancos
The university is surrounded by the Andes Mountains, and is a beautiful setting to learn the culture of the most developed South American Spanish speaking country. Our country is commonly referred to as the “end of the world”, and I think that helps characterize our way of life.Chile has a vast amount of natural resources, specifically copper, which is essential for the growth and sustainability for the country. The copper helps stimulate our economy and provides employment for citizens through out the country.
We have avocados, commonly known as “palta” which can be found on many different entrees. Every Chilean knows that palta goes with anything at anytime! For example, it is common to have bread with palta for breakfast, Japanese sushi wrapped in palta, or Mexican tacos filled with palta. Just when you think you have had enough palta, why not have a palta salad for dinner or an Italian sandwich with palta, mayonnaise and tomato. This is a common mixture of condiments because of the correlation to the flag colors. Chileans love palta so much, that last year the overall export of the product decreased because of the amount eaten within the country.
Finally, it is important to know that “down here” the earth does move as a result of earthquakes, however, it is not as detrimental as it appears on the news. Since we have always been a seismic country, we have learned about the impacts of earthquakes and developed really well anti seismic construction mechanism. The tallest building in South America, which is 300 meters is in Chile and has withstood and overcome many earthquakes. So there is nothing to be afraid of.
Santiago Streeter
The idiosyncrasy of the Chilean people cannot be understood without taking into account its recent past. Its characteristic features of generosity, determination and attachment to the family, as nucleus of society, have been strengthened after the political divisions that deeply fractured the Chilean society in the seventies and which resulted in a 17-year-long interruption of the democratic order. The Chileans reconstructed their national identity, overcoming the painful realities through forgiveness. Today Chile is the world’s example of a successful democratic transition.
Its geography: The profusion of poets and writers can only be understood against the background of 4,000 km of varying sceneries (deserts, glaciers, etc.). In spite of the drastic differences in terms of landscape and climate from one place to another, there are no marked regionalisms and hardly any differences as to language and accent.
Specific social characteristics: Chile is the country where commitment and intention are usually distinguished by intricate codes difficult to understand for a foreigner. A “see you later” does not necessarily mean that we will meet in a day or at a specific time. To arrive exactly on time at a social act may be inconvenient. What may be considered by some as thoughtlessness could also be seen as a quality. Relativisation of certain every-day actions is what has allowed the Chileans to overcome recurrent natural disasters and various other vicissitudes, in good humor and with a good deal of "magic realism".
China (Beijing)
Beijing has been at the heart of the most exciting economic growth story of the last thirty years. With a population of over 21 million, the city is the nation's political, cultural and educational center. It is home to a booming local middle class and is fast becoming a magnet for ambitious and entrepreneurial individuals from all over the globe. The country is one of the world's top exporters and continues to attract record amounts of foreign investment. In turn, China is investing billions of dollars abroad and is broader in its international outlook now than at any point in the country’s long history. In addition to all this, China, and Beijing in particular, is also a cultural heavyweight – and students in the city can explore Tiananmen square, take a trip to see the Great Wall of China and visit the Temple of Heaven – seat to the ruling Ming and Qing dynasties from the 14th century through to the start of the 2oth.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$904 / $527
Cappuccino: US$4.48
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,056
Climate The average temperature for the year in Beijing is 55.0°F (12.8°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 79.0°F (26.1°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 26.0°F (-3.3°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management
Eve Bian
Chinese Food: to feel it. To feel China is the first step. Chinese food is one of the most representative things to get an initial experience of China. It will benefit a lot to have a visual impression of China by food. The variety of food will attract you to want to feel more. You can choose what you like, make a list and then have a try in China when you come here. You will have no regrets.
Chinese People Character: to know it. To know Chinese people is the core content. Chinese people have strong characters based on the country's long history and fast modern life. As China is playing a more and more important role in the globalization process, to know them can help a lot. Some books, movies and pre-talking before you come here are all good for understanding Chinese.
Chinese opportunities: to win it. To win in China is the target. According to some exchange students, I know that they want to get internships in China or even get full-time jobs in the Asia region. In my opinion, if they can prepare more knowledge about the hot industries in China, the global companies’ branches in China and the international institutions in China, they will have more chance to win in Asian region as they want.
Language and teaching: to go out. To go out of the origin is the first step. Although we have internationalized teaching methods in Tsinghua University, China, it is still necessary for us to know the different language situation and teaching style. To get knowledge from language and course study is our foundation to go out and to give more service to the world.
Social style: to go into. To go into the local circle is the main content. I really want to understand the different social methods and style in different countries. People say that it is rather difficult to go into the local circle. However, I think, to go into the local life and to understand different culture are one of the most valuable parts of the CEMS experience.
Business Value: to go up. To go up to achieve business life is the long-term goal. There is no doubt that we can go up to the international stage based on understanding of international business value. It may include what is preferred and how to achieve it. I attempt to prepare more about this field to narrow value gap in a business working environment and try my best to go up to the new stage.
Harry Yu
How to make close friends with Chinese: As the old saying goes, do as the Romans do. “On my treat” rather than “go dutch” is the Chinese social philosophy, reflecting a reciprocal principle. If someone really wants to make friends with you after your treat, he would certainly return the hospitality in future.
Master the Chinese student’s working style: If you cannot put yourself in their position, you will never understand Chinese student’s working styles, and can easily being excluded from their “emotional group”, resulting in the inability to make good friends. Instead of enjoying evenings in pub, they prefer studying in a library or classroom, and usually leave their entertainment to the weekends. So focus on work during workdays, and leisure time during the weekends is best.
Sunny Yang
Coming to study in China means deepening your understanding of China, Chinese culture and Chinese people, which is a big plus for those who want to become the world's next generation of leaders. Tsinghua SEM combines China’s roots with global reach, and works to contribute to the development of China’s economy and society as well as to making an impact on the world.
Experience China's unique blend of ancient and modern civilization, as well as its scenic beauty and bustling nightlife. Everyday day will be refreshing and fulfilling.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management
Madeleine Brown
The campus is full of extremely cheap and convenient canteens. Try them all! Keep in mind that they are extremely strict with their meal times though and you need to get in on time otherwise everything closes. For example, dinner starts at 5pm and ends at 7pm in many cases. You need to use your pre-paid dining card to pay.
Be assertive with questions and follow up with teachers again and again. Many of the teachers also can’t answer you directly and tend to pass off the question to another staff member who is more ‘senior’. Also you will not find out any marks or grades until at least three months after the semester ends.
There is a huge population so there are crowds everywhere. Don’t be offended if you get pushed or squashed, as they don’t have the luxury of personal space. Many of my friends agreed that you need to be extremely open minded in China and adopt a ‘couldn’t care less’ approach otherwise you will be angry and offended all the time. It’s an amazing place though! Just expect the unexpected.
Tristan Delannoy
Few Chinese people speak another language (including English), so it would be useful to learn some basics of Chinese before spending five months in China, especially in Beijing.
Almost every payment is made by cash. For example, you cannot do a bank transfer to pay your rent. Thus, you will probably only use your bank card to withdraw cash. Be very careful with the transaction fees.
Czech Republic (Prague)
After emerging from over 40 years of Communist rule in 1990, the Czech Republic was the first former Eastern Bloc state to acquire the status of a developed economy. It’s a country with a proud and robust democratic tradition, a highly-developed economy, and a rich cultural heritage. At its cultural heart lies the picture perfect capital city of Prague. Around one-fifth of all investment in the Czech Republic takes place here in the city that has long been a political, cultural, and economic centre of central Europe – and is now ranked one of the best destinations to visit in the world by Tripadvisor. Perhaps the draw is some the world's most pristine and varied collections of architecture, or the world-class museums, or maybe the hundreds of concert halls, galleries, cinemas and music clubs in the city. A city that accounts for 25% of the Czech Republic's GDP – making it the highest performing regional economy of the entire country. Today, somewhat unsurprisingly, the number of foreign residents calling Prague their home is ever-increasing.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$603 / $419
Cappuccino: US$1.90
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,320
Climate The average temperature for the year in Prague is 47.0°F (8.3°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 63.0°F (17.2°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 29.0°F (-1.7°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at the University of Economics, Prague
Dominika Wachtlová
Never use public transport without a ticket- the chances of you getting caught are very high and so is the fee. Also, always mind your valuables in public transport, bars, clubs and crowded places. Petty theft is rather common but can be avoided if you take precautions.
The dorms are a bit shabby but affordable. most students prefer to stay there because it is super cheap and it gives people many wonderful chances to make friends for life.
Denmark (Copenhagen)
Vikings raiding from Denmark changed the course of European history in the 9th century – and Denmark continues to make an impact. The country is one of the most competitive economies in the world, according to the World Economic Forum, and it is also rated to be one of the happiest on the globe. The country’s wealth supports an extensive welfare system, a generous social security system as well as high employment. Originally a Viking fishing village founded in the 10th century, Copenhagen is the capital, and the most populous city in Denmark. It is a true city of education with students making up nearly 10% percent of its 1.2 million residents. If you are concerned about making your way through the city, you’ll be pleased to find out that Copenhagen has also been rated as one of the world's top cities for cyclists. Copenhageners cycle a total of 1.2 km every day along 340 km of cycle lanes.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$1,421 / $985
Cappuccino: US$5.78
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,389
Climate The average temperature for the year in Copenhagen is 47.0°F (8.3°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 62.0°F (16.7°C). The coolest month on average is February, with an average temperature of 32.0°F (0°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at the Copenhagen Business School
Rasmus Bonde Greis
Danes love their bikes, and there are more bikes than inhabitants in Copenhagen. Even though the winter is cold and snowy 50% of the inhabitants commute on their bike daily. So get a bike as the first thing when you are doing your semester in Copenhagen. The facilities are excellent and safe and it is often the fastest way to get from A to B, along with the efficiency then you get free exercise daily. However, it is important to follow the rules, do not turn right when the light is red, it can easily cost you 100 euros, and do keep right so people can pass you. Tip: Several places sell used bikes, so you do not have to use all your savings the first week, you will need those for later.
Denmark is expensive. Many tourists and expats will notice this, as one of the first things: the cost of living in Copenhagen is high. Restaurant prices for a three-course-dinner at a midrange restaurant will easily cost you 100-120 USD, a metro ticket 5$, a pint at a pub 10$, a McDonalds combo meal 12$ and a liter of milk 1,1$. This means that you should either bring a good amount of savings to Denmark, or find a way to live cheap. Thankfully are there plenty of ways to cut costs, here are few tips: Remember to return bottles and beer cans, you get between 20 and 50 US cents per unit. Shop in discount stores like Netto, Fakta, Aldi, Lidl and Rema. Do not pay with international credit cards, many store charge large fees. Finally explore the many free possibilities that Copenhagen offers. NB: Denmark does not use Euro, but Danish Krone. 1 Euro = 7,45 Kroner.
Studying at CBS is theoretical. The workload depends from one course to another, but majority of the syllabus contains a large number of scientific papers. Another thing to keep in mind it that the exam form varies a lot between courses, however many courses have one 100% exam at the end of the semester or quarter. Almost all exams are computer based, meaning that they either are taking place in the computer lab or as a take home case. NB: It is common to blank exams at CBS, meaning that students do not get punished for failing, but get the chance to attend the retake a month or two later.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to the Copenhagen Business School
Bettina Andrea Schauperl
Don't be afraid to question things. I wish I had known right away how much Danes value critical thinking. I learned not to be afraid of questioning all kinds of matters in class, and this attitude made for engaging and interesting discussions at university.
If you want to go some place in Copenhagen, you take your bike, irrespective of weather conditions like snow, hail or wind storms. Simply bring a rain jacket, and you will learn to embrace the brilliance and beauty of bicycling.
Expect to feel like the worst dressed person in the place. That’s okay though, Danish people are simply born with a better fashion style.
Finland (Helsinki)
One of the most innovative cities on Earth, according to Business Insider, Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland. Before the days of hi-tech, the coastal city was largely Finland's sole point of contact with the rest of the world – a country that now has one of the best-qualified workforces on the globe thanks to huge spending on education, training and research. This has been key to the development of a modern, competitive economy that has built on its traditional timber and metals industries. Today, Finland has one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, according to the IMF, and boasts a high standard of living and quality of life. A country of beauty, Finland is blessed with lakes, forests, the Northern Lights and, not surprisingly, its capital is now famed as a preeminent centre for international diplomacy.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$1,190 / $935
Cappuccino: US$4.22
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,399
Climate The average temperature for the year in Helsinki is 41.0°F (5°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 62.0°F (16.7°C). The coolest month on average is February, with an average temperature of 21.0°F (-6.1°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at the Aalto University School of Business
Patrik Akrenius and Sara Montonen
Finland is a country of contrasts: four distinct seasons, midnight sun, polar nights, high technology and vast nature. Since 86% of the country is covered with forests, the population density is very low. However, the population is very clustered and in fact a fifth of the population lives in the Greater Helsinki area.
Finland has two official languages: Finnish and Swedish. This is reflected in everything from road names to food product labels. Being a small country, Finns in general speak foreign languages well. Moreover, all Master’s level courses are in English, so incoming students will not have difficulties because of the language. Student life in Aalto is very active. The Business School’s student union (KY) is huge; it has 5 committees, 3 subcommittees, 10 subject clubs and many, many non-academia related clubs. The clubs’ themes range from long-distance running and coffee to consulting and sailing. KY plays a big role in student life in Aalto.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to the Aalto University School of Business
Pascal Egloff
Explore the city on foot or by bike. This is definitely the best way to fall in love with this Nordic environment, so, if possible try to organise a bike (even in winter) to get around.
Look for more affordable options in town. Even though the prices are known to be quite high there are some cheaper alternatives if one explores the areas around the centre.
Not all Finns are so introvert as their image might seem. After one or two drinks, they are very chatty and good fun.
France (Paris)
As one of the most visited cities on earth, The City of Lights conjures up images of romance, fine food, and a sparkling Eiffel Tower. But beyond the well-beaten tourist path, Paris welcomes huge numbers of international students every year. In addition to perfecting their language skills, or courses in fashion, art and history, many students also come to study business in Europe’s second largest economy. And for good reason. Despite images of leisurely lunches and a 35-hour week, France is the most innovative country in Europe, according to Thompson Reuters. With 39 of the 500 biggest companies in the world in 2010, France ranks fourth in the Fortuna Global 500, ahead of Germany and the UK. The country holds more patents than almost any other European country, and is the home to world beaters in industry, aerospace, banking, insurance, design and the luxury sector. The La Défense Business District to the west of the city is the largest in Europe, and is home to no fewer than 1,500 corporate head offices.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$1,417 / $1,064
Cappuccino: US$4.46
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,337
Climate The average temperature for the year in Paris is 54.3°F (12.4°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 68.9°F (20.5°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 41.0°F (5°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at HEC Paris
Anthony Solaire
Be patient with the French administration. You will certainly realize at your own expense how slow bureaucracy can get in France. Upon arrival you might have to fill in dozens of documents for your bank account, your insurance, your housing, and so on. Some of these procedures will go through public administration, and you might feel confused at how long the simplest task can take. We French people have learnt the hard way to live with this, and usually joke about it. Thankfully your host university will guide you through these steps and provide you with the necessary support to help you settle down in France. Also do not hesitate to ask for help from local people: we know how frustrating all this can get.
Learn basic French. One would think that the most visited country in the world would have developed strong language skills over the years. All wrong. Even in Paris. Most of the people you will meet in the streets will have a limited knowledge of foreign languages, and you might have a hard time trying to make yourself understood. Whether it is the result of a strong national pride or just laziness is a question still to be answered. However if you at least try to speak French, people will gladly help you, answer your questions, and might even give you some tips to progress in French.
Do not get lost in the French clichés. Paris is a postcard at every corner. It is easy for a foreigner to limit his or her French experience to a to do list of monuments and museums to visit. The only thing you will get in return is a lot of wonderful screen savers for your computer. For sure, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and the Palace of Versailles are all great places to learn about French culture. But the real French experience is all about wandering along the sides of the Seine, eating a picnic or taking a nap in a public park, drinking a coffee at a terrace with your friends... Do not rush to tick all the boxes, and do not force the charm of the country: French people take their time to enjoy life.
Mathilde Louis
Be aware of local differences in education. If you come to study in France, just be aware of the French “prépa” system that is different from the usual Bachelor-Master system. Students work very hard during two years (prépa) to enter a business school. As a consequence, they are more result-oriented, straight-to-the-point and relaxed afterwards. Just keep it in mind for your group works!
Be prepared for a very practical teaching style. As opposed to other European schools that put a lot of emphasis on theory, HEC Paris aims at making its students ready to work in a company. As a consequence, we are very close to the corporate world, which is really enjoyable, especially when undertaking business projects.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to HEC Paris
Jungae Hosoya, Japan
You should have a little understanding of French language. Even though all the classes are taught in English, some signs at the school are in French, and the local people don’t speak English at all. I can understand some French, so I was OK, but it is best to be prepared for this beforehand.
Be aware of opening hours for restaurants and stores. The opening hours of the canteen and restaurants are limited, so it is easy to miss meals. Eating properly is essential for good quality work, so for me it was important to know when and where I could eat during the day.
Be ready for last minute changes. It is not uncommon in France to notify class time changes only the day before. For some students it is hard to cope with a sudden change. Visiting students should bear this in mind, and be prepared to alter their plans.
Inês Jesus, Portugal
Paris really is a cultural centre. It may not sound surprising, but there is an immensity of activities, shows, museums and events, which makes it impossible to discover it all in one semester – you will feel the need to come back. Every time you take the train to the city centre you can be sure you will discover something new about the city.
Campus life is incredible. I don’t have this back at home. But the feeling of having your classrooms 5 minutes away, the restaurant always full of people you know, and your friends just one door or one building away is amazing! Because you are always together on campus, you learn how to create your own social life, you discover new ways of having fun, and most of all you genuinely connect with people around you. Yes, you lose a bit of the cultural life of Paris but for me it was more than worth it.
Patrik Akrenius
Think about the local areas of excellence. While HEC is well known for its world class Finance programs, as a French school it is uniquely positioned for education in luxury marketing and is supported by partnerships with many of the top firms in the field. Most of the course content offered for CEMS exchange students is in English, while classes taught in French are also available.
Germany (Cologne)
Though known for a rich cultural and sporting history, Germany is responsible for far more than Beethoven, Bach and Brazilian footballing success. Ranked 5th in the Fortune Global 500, Germany is a major economic power, and is Europe's most industrialized and populous country, famed for its technological achievements as well as its contribution to the arts. As a global leader in several industrial and technological sectors, it is both the world's third-largest exporter and third-largest importer of goods. The country is also known for its high standard of living, and with strong employment rates Germany is the second most popular migration destination in the world. Cologne is Germany’s fourth largest city and home to more than a million people. Founded in the first century AD, the city is steeped in history. The University of Cologne was founded in 1388, and is the largest university in Germany. Students can visit the Kölner Dom – Cologne’s famous cathedral or the city’s Roman archaeological sites, museums, and one of the largest street festivals in Europe.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$699 / $581
Cappuccino: US$2.92
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,338
Climate The average temperature for the year in Cologne is 50.0°F (10°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 64.0°F (17.8°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 36.0°F (2.2°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at University of Cologne
Julius Osthues
Plan where you want to stay before you arrive. There are basically two options: you can apply for a dorm or you can try to get an apartment yourself. Dorms are typically reasonable and affordable. In Germany as a student it is pretty common that you rent an apartment together with other students.
Cologne is a great place for students, no matter what your interests. If you want to take interesting courses, strive through museums, dine in nice restaurants, party hard or engage in sport activities. If you are interested in culture Cologne has a lot to offer.
Lisa Portmann
Student life in Cologne is vivid and fantastic. There is always something to do. People living here know how to enjoy life.
Thomas Elm
Prospective students should know that Germans value time and commitment. If you tell somebody to meet at 7pm, usually by 7:05pm everybody is there. Making Germans wait is usually not well considered.
All students coming to Germany should make an effort and visit the Oktoberfest. I don't know why the stereotype of unfunny Germans prevails, but Oktoberfest is one of those occasions where students can experience first-hand, that this is not true at all.
Students should not be worried about not being able to speak German. Almost all young people and a fair amount of older people speak English reasonably well enough to help or even have a decent conversation. In fact, it might be hard to learn German since everybody is nice enough to switch to English if a foreigner is present. Hence, language barriers are no reason not to come to Germany.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to University of Cologne
Soh, Kok Yip
In Germany everything closes on Sunday. We were lucky to be staying with a German landlady who told us what would happen the day before, but this would be a rude shock to anyone who didn’t know, especially if they flew in on a Sunday!
Navigating the administration. Anyone who moves houses in Germany has to register their new address with the authorities. Likewise, foreigners also have to register with the mayor’s office within a couple of weeks from their moving-in. The catch is that the staff at the office is only allowed to speak to you in German, due to legal representation issues. We had to trouble a German friend so that she could translate for us.
Madeleine Brown
Take a German friend or 'buddy' to help you with admin. The elder staff members on campus have difficulty with English so I would recommend taking a German friend or your ‘buddy’ to faculties to enrol if you don’t speak German. It took me 3 visits alone to attempt to enrol for a German class, but got straight in when I took my buddy.
Rely on your bike and public transport. Public transport is excellent and free in the whole region for the semester after you pay the initial student card payment (around 230 Euros). It is also a very ‘bike’ friendly city.
Benji Fok
Expect a reasonable cost of living in Germany. I don't want to do my exchange in London because living expenses in London are so high to afford. I like Germany because the infrastructure there is so good, and to live there is not too expensive.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading international financial centres. This city-state has developed rapidly with exceptionally high growth rates and swift industrialisation that means it now boasts exceptionally low unemployment rates, a huge population, low taxation and free trade. In fact, the Hong Kong dollar is one of the most traded currencies in the world. With one of the highest per capita incomes on the globe, those who live in Hong Kong enjoy a high quality of life and the longest life expectancy of any region. A metropolis of colossal modern skyscrapers and impressive lights that reflect in the water of the harbour, Hong Kong has been nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Orient’. Indeed, it has more buildings higher than 500ft than any other city on Earth and is home to a vast percentage of millionaires – perhaps that’s why this mountainous urban area off of China’s south coast has more Rolls Royces per person than other city anywhere. But, most importantly, Hong Kong has the world’s fastest internet speed.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$2,348 / $1,451
Cappuccino: US$4.26
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$966
Climate The average temperature for the year in Hong Kong is 75.0°F (23.9°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 85.0°F (29.4°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 62.0°F (16.7°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at HKUST
Benji Fok
Be ready for the change in climate. Since its a subtropical climate, it can be super humid during spring term. Someone might feel sick about the rainy and foggy days here.
It wouldn’t hurt to learn some Cantonese before you arrive. Although HK had been a colony of UK for quiet long time, Cantonese is the dominant language here and many people can't speak English.
Cost of accommodation. the rooms here are so small and expensive compared with most countries, be prepared to pay.
Roger Wu
Relationship with the mainland. Hong Kong and Macau are not countries, and they are two Special Administrative Regions (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China. Cantonese, spoken in Hong Kong, is very different from Mandarin Chinese (also known as Putong Hua), the official language in Mainland China. The two languages speakers can hardly understand each other verbally but reading and writing are not big issues since they share more or less the same format.
Hong Kong offers much more than Lan Kwai Fong, the hub of bars and clubs. Take some time to visit temples, islands, mountains, etc, and most nationals can even tour in Peal Delta area in Mainland China with a visa on arrival.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to HKUST
Sina Vaziri
Doing business in Asia. From an academic standpoint, HKUST places a strong focus on cultural differences between Asia and the west and provides a great perspective on “doing business in Asia.”
An incredible place to call home. The city offers something for everyone: between the breath-taking hikes which lead to serene beaches, dense metropolis of skyscrapers, a plethora of food and entertainment options, and numerous centres of art and culture, you will never be bored in Hong Kong.
Jungae Hosoya
Finding accommodation in Hong Kong is very difficult. The rent in Hong Kong is outrageous, so get started as soon as possible to find more affordable options.
Akshay Goel
You should understand the importance of saving face, guanxi and how the Chinese work in groups. You should also understand how indirect chinese people can be, wanting to save face even in front of strangers.
Hungary (Budapest)
Hungary is known for its well established private sector which accounts for 80% of the country’s GDP. It is also the land of thermal water, with more than 80 million litres rising to the surface every day. A particularly high number of thermal pools can be found in the country’s capital city, Budapest, under which lies the world's largest geothermic cave system. According to Forbes, this former centre of Renaissance humanism is "Europe's 7th most idyllic place to live" and it was ranked as the most liveable Central and Eastern European city by The Economist. Hosting the first subway line in continental Europe (Millenium Line) as well as the world’s second largest synagogue and the world’s biggest music festival, the city promises to please the eye of inhabitants and visitors alike. For those of you seeking inspiration, touching the pen held by the Statue of Anonymous is said to make you a better writer!
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$291 / $205
Cappuccino: US$1.53
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,353
Climate The average temperature for the year in Budapest is 51.0°F (10.6°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 69.0°F (20.6°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 31.0°F (-0.6°C).
Advice from local CEMS students from Corvinus University of Budapest
Carl Warkentin
Have a basic knowledge of the recent history of Hungary, because this topic will come up eventually. Even though I realized that the economy is still a developing one and politics are a difficult topic, I had no idea of the extent to which people have been influenced by their history. Even people in their early twenties. The way in which locals approach things in life, behave and think is very different from Western Europe. Do not make the mistake of thinking locals are not open minded or outgoing, or that they are pessimistic even. They simply look at life in a different, more reversed and modest way, which shows how much they are characterized by their difficult history.
Budapest is not representative to the whole of Hungary. It is an international, relatively rich city compared to smaller cities and the countryside. Both city and country are worth a visit.
Corvinus is in the middle of the city, beautifully located and consists of many impressive buildings. If you think about coming to Budapest to study, I can highly recommend it to you. For decent money you can have a good lifestyle in a beautiful, impulsive and international city. It is easy to find an apartment, local people are very friendly and helpful.
Balazs Hajnal
Don't worry about the challenge of the Hungarian language, considered to be among the hardest in the world. The majority of Budapest citizens have a good command of English. Hungarians care a lot about each other, especially about their friends which means that when they ask you “How are you?”, they really mean it. That is, they expect you to provide a detailed explanation to them regarding what has been happening with you.
Paprika plays a crucial role in the traditional Hungarian cuisine making the classic dishes such as goulash soup a bit spicy. Based on its rich cultural heritage Budapest has a lot to offer to its citizens including one of the best public transportation systems on earth.
Hungarians are crazy about water polo, our “national sport” which is almost as popular as football.
Higher education still focuses more on theoretical knowledge than practical knowledge, making Hungarian students more prepared on formal frameworks. Nevertheless, this approach seems to pay off on the long term as Hungarians have contributed a lot to the world’s scientific inventions including soda water, the ballpoint pen and the Ford Model T.
Nelli Gyöngyösi
You don’t have to rent a place in the center of Budapest in order to be close to important places, because you can easily reach any place in the city by public transport, even at night.
Look beyond events organised for exchange students. Budapest offers such a great variety of restaurants and bars, concerts and out of the box cultural programs to go to (eg. slam poetry events, late night classical concerts). Discovering the tastes of Hungary is also a must. Besides our traditional Hungarian dishes we have many wine regions of different characteristics. It’s really worth discovering all of them and you can easily do this in popular wine bars or you can join special wine trips organized in specific regions.
India (Kolkata)
Famed for spicy cuisine and bright Bollywood blockbusters, India has not only had a major cultural influence on the world, it has also broken new ground as the world’s largest democracy and a major power. With a fast-growing and powerful economy, the country has capitalized on its enormous educated English-speaking population to become a colossal exporter of information technology services, business outsourcing services, and software workers. In the east of the country, lies the bustling, busy metropolis of Kolkata – a city that lays claim to the country’s oldest operating port and a large working populace. With rickshaw rides and tiled temples, this is a city to ‘feel’. Perhaps this is why it was dubbed the "City of Furious, Creative Energy" back in the 70s. Today, the vibrant city is still regarded as the cultural capital of India. And with one of the fastest growing local economies in the country, Kolkata is now the main business, commercial and financial hub of eastern India.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$162 / $81
Cappuccino: US$1.25
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,325
Climate The average temperature for the year in Calcutta is 80.1°F (26.7°C). The warmest month, on average, is May with an average temperature of 87.4°F (30.8°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 67.8°F (19.9°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at IIM Calcutta
Ankita Balyan
It would be helpful to read and understand the cultural sentiments of the people of India. For instance, understanding, appreciating and observing the code of conduct in places of religious significance and worship is vital while living in our country. It would also help to know about the country and its historical past, in order to add more context to their visit to India - especially while they are travelling inside the country.
India is very diverse, and although English is widely spoken, it would help students if they have basic knowledge of the national language i.e. Hindi.
Srinivas Vadrevu
Food and living can be a very different experience for visiting students. Unlike many European schools it’s mandatory to live on campus, and only Indian cuisine is served in the canteens.Visiting students should be mindful of the differences in culture and language both on and off campus. Every student on IIM Calcutta campus can communicate in English, which may not be the case if you step off campus.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to IIM Calcutta
Max Friberg
India is an adventure. The food is spicy, the social differences are huge and people are colourful and friendly. Stay open-minded and get ready for an experience that will change your life. There will be plenty of time for you to travel and discover the country.
The weather can be really tough. The fall semester begins during the monsoon, when it is hot and pouring rain. The weather gets increasingly dry and pleasant, but the start can be a shock! Still, you get to wear shorts and sunglasses for the majority of your stay.
Ireland (Dublin)
Dublin is renowned the world over for its welcoming people and their love of the ‘craic’. And with its iconic Temple Bar area offering the finest Gaelic food, drink and music to visitors from all over the world, the city does not disappoint for those in search of that famous Irish hospitality. However, Dublin is also the progressive heart of Ireland’s global economy, with economic activity in the city accounting for 47% of the national total. Dublin is also a global hub for the technology sector and a home to all of the world’s top ten ICT firms and nine out of the top ten global software companies - with around 150,000 employees in these sectors alone. And international students in the city certainly won’t feel isolated, with Dublin accounting for almost two thirds of the total of international students in Ireland.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$1,244 / $1,021
Cappuccino: US$3.67
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,398
Climate The average temperature for the year in Dublin is 49.6°F (9.8°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 60.1°F (15.6°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 41.5°F (5.3°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at UCD Smurfit
Laoise Kiely
Accommodation is very challenging to find in Dublin, and finding campus accommodation, in particular, is very competitive, so be prepared to search.
Make the most of opportunities to socialize and bond. While there is a heavy workload to deal with, it was always possible to fit in socializing. We all became close friends and are likely to stay in contact for years to come.
Mark Appleby
Embrace the friendliness of Dubliners and get involved in the social aspects as much as possible. It will certainly help you to settle into both the University and life in the city in general. Dublin is a very vibrant city so I would advise anyone try to make the most of it!
A word of caution with regards to accommodation. The rental market in Dublin is definitely not cheap and it can be difficult to find a place at short notice, so the best thing to do is arrive prepared - either with student accommodation organised, or else viewing appointments for rental accommodation. Preparation before you arrive is the key to a worry free stay!
Advice from visiting CEMS students to UCD Smurfit
Aleksey Konovalenkov
I wish I had known earlier that the Irish West coast is so different from the East coast. It is highly recommended to expand their travelling routes towards the Atlantic coast.
It is not easy or cheap to obtain travel insurance in Ireland, which is necessary to apply for other visas. In general, I think it would be reasonable to obtain visas to the other countries (The UK and Schengen) in advance so that travelling there was possible at all, as normally it is convenient to go to various European destinations from Dublin.
Kseniia Kotelnikova
Irish people are extremely friendly and helpful, probably the nicest nation I ever have experienced.
It is extremely hard to find accommodation in Dublin for one semester, so it is better to start looking as early as possible.
Italy (Milan)
Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country in the world. Alongside its many contributions to the arts and architecture, the country has also been at the heart of western civilisation for hundreds of years. Rome has served as the capital of both the Roman Empire and of the Christian faith. Italy was also one of the six countries that signed the 1951 Paris Treaty which set Europe on the path to integration. Today, the country is perhaps best known for its contribution to high-end fashion and automobiles, and its agricultural sector (Italy is the world's largest producer of wine). Milan is Italy’s main industrial, commercial, and financial centre, and is home to the Borsa Italiana - Italy’s main stock exchange. Despite having the eurozone's third largest economy, Italy also has a huge public debt - second only to Greece's. However, the standard of living has remained extremely high.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$1,255 / $868
Cappuccino: US$1.77
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,398
Climate The average temperature for the year in Milan is 52.5°F (11.4°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 71.5°F (21.9°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 33.5°F (0.8°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Bocconi University
Susanna Garancini
For Italians, words are important...but body language even more so! Try to observe the gestures and movements of people while talking to get deeper insights on how they feel or what they are trying to say, and use this to help your own response.
Be ready for a tough workload. They will have a tough schedule every day and they will be required to read a lot of books, papers and articles to prepare the exams.
Winding down in the evening. From 6 pm, Italians celebrate the end of the day with the "aperitivo": you go to a bar, you pay only the drink, but you can eat as much as you want!
Andrea Bianchi
Things to know about Italians: Though serious and professional at university/work place, Italians love to enjoy life and socialize. By choosing Bocconi, you will not just experience a high quality education; you will also have the chance to meet great people, experience great wine, great food and great parties. Italian culture will welcome you. Do not stick to the superficial Hollywood stereotypes, try to understand and learn this unique way of living, socializing and communicating. You will love it.
Leoni: Do not pass between the two “lions” statues, located at the entrance of the Old building at Bocconi. It is said that if you pass between them, you will never graduate.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to Bocconi University
Carla Manent
Impact of learning the language. When you think about doing your exchange in a certain place often one of the most important issues that influence the decision is the language. Do you speak it? Do you want to learn it? Many people that went to Bocconi with me wanted to learn Italian but ended up going back to their home school not having practiced it much. However, if you’re really serious about learning the local language, my advice is to start learning it before you go there so you’ll have a base and you can already start speaking with the locals and practicing on your first day.
Do not book flights back home for the holidays since you’re going to want to travel around. Some people had already made plans for Easter break and for every long weekend or holiday but in my opinion you should try to save some time for travelling too. In every exchange destination there are amazing places that you’re going to want to see. Near Milan for example there are incredible places like Cinqueterre, Lake Como or the Dolomiti Mountains. As well as places a bit further away like Roma or Napoli that are still cheap to get to by train. So remember you’re not only there to study but also to learn about the country and the culture and try to save time and money for a few trips.
Japan (Tokyo)
Home of technology and robotics, Japan’s enormous industrial capacity has produced the world’s third largest economy. With a population of over 126 million, it’s a country that has some of the largest and most technologically advanced manufacturers of motor vehicles, electronics, machine tools, ships, textiles, and processed foods. And its capital is one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. Tokyo hosts 51 of the Fortune Global 500 companies, the highest number of any city, and was named one of the most liveable cities by the magazine Monocle. It has the most Michelin stars of any city, the largest metropolitan economy, and a major international finance centre. Not only this, Tokyo continues to take pride in its excellent public transport systems, numerous universities, and various museums and theatres across the area. And if these facts still aren’t enough – Tokyo may be one of the busiest cities on Earth (Shinjuku Station is officially the busiest station on the planet, with more than 3.5 million passengers a day) but it is also one of the cleanest.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$1,172 / $655
Cappuccino: US$3.50
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$927
Climate The average temperature for the year in Tokyo is 61.3°F (16.3°C). The warmest month, on average, is August with an average temperature of 81.3°F (27.4°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 43.0°F (6.1°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Keio University
Keita Saito
Keep in mind language barriers: A highly homogenous country with one officially spoken language, students with little in the way of Japanese language skills may experience difficulties in communicating with people on a day-to-day basis. I would highly advise students to make an effort to learn some Japanese if they wish to make the most out of the social interactions and cultural experiences during their stay in Japan.
Always stay culturally sensitive: As Keio University is located at the heart of Tokyo, students will experience living in a unique Asian environment and in one of the world's largest metropolitan cities. For many students, Japanese culture will feel very different and perhaps uncomfortable due to distinct social norms and cultural values. I would advise students not to feel alienated by a seemingly complex and high context culture, but to embrace differences and try to immerse themselves in the local environment; engage in conversation with people at a local bar, participate in local sports events (baseball is especially popular at Keio University), and try to also travel outside of Tokyo.
Jungae Hosoya
Be prepared for the climate before you arrive! We have a month-long rainy season between June and July, so if you come to Japan during this period, you should really know this fact beforehand.
Having some knowledge of Japanese language helps a lot. The use of English signs may be increasing in main cities, but local restaurants and shops still only use Japanese. If you know some very basic Japanese words; such as greetings and how to ask for directions, this will be very useful you.
Netherlands (Rotterdam)
The Dutch are the tallest in the world, with an average height of 6 feet (1m84) for men and 5'5" (1m70) for women. Some believe its the combined result of DNA and dairy. Despite their height, the Dutch are still conscious of keeping their heads above water, and are the world experts on keeping backwater from the sea. In fact the US government turned to the Dutch for help during the hurricane Katrina disaster. Today, The Netherlands is the fifth-most competitive economy in the world according to the World Economic Forum and a tourist attraction for visitors across the globe. Rotterdam is the second largest city in country, and is the second largest port in the world with respect to size and tonnage. Named as the European Capital of Culture in 2001, and regarded as a cultural centre for the entire country, Rotterdam is home to a number of international and national events, festivals, concerts and carnivals. However, the city is also highly entrepreneurial with its ‘room for initiatives’ concept and its ‘down to work’ mentality making the city a stepping-stone for eager entrepreneurs.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$901 / $801
Cappuccino: US$2.91
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,374
Climate The average temperature for the year in Rotterdam is 50.0°F (10°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 63.0°F (17.2°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 38.0°F (3.3°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Rotterdam School of Management
Joske de Ligt
Rotterdam is a truly interesting and vibrant city. Give it a chance, and you will discover why Rough Guides has ranked it as one of the top cities to visit this year. As the city with the most nationalities in the Netherlands, Rotterdam is truly an international hub, which explains why so many MNEs have their offices located here.
The Dutch culture. The Dutch are amongst the most open, hardworking, and down-to-earth people to roam this planet - in a good way. You will notice this in every aspect of your life here; from the university that expects commitment to excellence, to the people who have already made it, but are still cycling to work (the prime-minister). What Dutch do not do though, is bragging, even when something is worth bragging about.
Our snack worth bragging about – the kroket. This deep fried meaty delicacy can be bought at any snack bar whenever you need instant happiness – day or night. Yes, you can “pull it out of the wall”! Ask a local and you will discover what I mean with that.
Norway (Bergen)
Europe's northernmost country conjures up images of Vikings and stunning fjords. While the Kingdom of Norway retains its captivating history and iconic beauty, it has become one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Not only boasting the largest capital reserve per capita of any nation, Norway also has the highest standard of living as well as low levels of unemployment. In the far west, the city of Bergen has been a commercial hotspot for centuries. The city centre is surrounded by the Seven Mountains, which has given the city its name (‘berg’ is an old Norse word for mountain), and has made the area an attractive destination for hikers, especially considering the nearby Norwegian fjords. With sandy beaches, many museums and attractive buildings that line the coast, Bergen is easy to get around on foot – good news seeing as it is Norway’s second largest city.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$1,462 / $1,218
Cappuccino: US$5.98
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,377
Climate The average temperature for the year in Bergen is 45.7°F (7.6°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 57.7°F (14.3°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 34.3°F (1.3°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Norwegian School of Economics
Anne Margrethe Vik
Norwegians are not always easy to get to know, and they come across as only being concerned with their own business. Most Norwegians do speak English well, but many feel uncomfortable when they have to practice it and try to avoid situations where it is necessary. Also, Norwegians are not super open to foreigners and can be a little bit skeptical of everything that is different from their own habits.
Clean water, fresh air, even though it can be cold. Oslo has the best climate, even though the rest of the country inhabitants will not really admit that. You can drink tap water everywhere, and it tastes really good. We have northern lights during winter, but to be sure to see them you should go to the north during winter. Around Bergen the nature is wonderful with its fjords and mountains. Norwegians love hiking, and you should know that it is perfectly fine to wear your sports gear or sports outfit in public, like when you are grocery shopping.
It is expensive. When eating out you really should check the alcohol prices before you order something, as they may be ridiculously high. If you are a tourist and visiting the small exotic places of Norway, the food and drink prices can be particularly scary.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to Norwegian School of Economics
Dominika Wachtlová
The nature is fantastic in Norway and it is worth it to go on trips to explore the surrounding area. Make sure you pack good walking shoes and a rain jacket though!
Be smart when shopping. For example I wish I had known there is one specific beer in Rema 1000 supermarket, which costs less than $1. Look for this ‘Holy Grail’ to save a ton of money.
Take every opportunity to socialise - great things might come out of things that do not sound too appealing to you.
Poland (Warsaw)
Poland is one of the great success stories of recent European history. Since joining the European Union in 2004, the country has benefitted greatly from increased trade with member nations and is one of the few countries within Europe that continued to grow economically through the recent global financial crisis. As a result, Poland is now amongst the wealthiest nations in central and eastern Europe and Warsaw, the country’s capital, has benefitted in turn. Students in the city can expect a dynamic and exciting metropolis – from the charm of the old town’s cobbled streets and stories of the city’s turbulent past, to the world class dining and bars found in the modern city centre. Warsaw’s economy is driven by a diverse range of industries including automotive manufacturing, electronic equipment and food processing and the city's central business district is home to the offices of many of the world’s leading international companies. Despite this, living costs are still low when compared to other major European cities.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$581 / $446
Cappuccino: US$2.54
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,361
Climate The average temperature for the year in Warsaw is 47.0°F (8.3°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 64.0°F (17.8°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 29.0°F (-1.7°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Warsaw School of Economics
Warsaw is a great place to dine and wine properly and in a very budget-friendly way. There are so many good restaurants to visit. Just go ahead and try our Polish specialities. And if you are not particularly fond of experimenting, you'll have no problem finding a decent place with an international kitchen. As you will quickly discover, Polish people are finding any good excuse to celebrate properly, and Warsaw is most likely the best place in the country to let you embrace this philosophy. After 10pm you are good to go to any of the numerous shotbars and experience vibrant climate of Polish clubbing. In summer, it is far more fun to join one of many parties on the riverside, where people are crazy and the music is loud.
Warsaw is emerging as the main business hub in the Central-Eastern Europe, so it's defintiely worth tapping into the city before everyone else does. Polish people are not particularly trusting and smiling around to strangers. But once they get to know you better (most likely after several rounds of shared beverage experience), you'll make great. long-lasting friendships. In general, Polish people are hospitable and very keen on learning about your international background. All in all, Warsaw is a great place to live in.
Portugal (Lisbon)
Once the owner of half of the “New World” the Portuguese Empire was actually the first global empire in history. Today, though its global influence has diminished, the country is still a major European player. The oldest nation-state in Europe, it is a member of several international bodies including the United Nations, the European Union, NATO, and the WTO. Portugal’s economy is largely service-based, and is responsible for producing everything from textiles, and clothing to paper, auto parts, glassware and telecommunications to the wider world. According to the Global Competitiveness Report, Portugal is one of the world's most globalized and peaceful nations. The country is also steeped in tradition. During the month of June, festivities dedicated to three saints known as the Santos Populares take place all over Portugal. They are characterised by folk dance and music. And of course the country has lots of sunshine and great food - each region of Portugal has its own traditional dishes.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$713 / $492
Cappuccino: US$1.55
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,487
Climate The average temperature for the year in Lisbon is 62.6°F (17°C). The warmest month, on average, is August with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 52.3°F (11.3°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Nova School of Business and Economics
Cátia Rocha
Lisbon is a beautiful city with 7 hills. You need to be prepared to walk and not use, for example, a bicycle as a mean of transportation. Food is of high quality with a focus on fish and seafood.
The public transportation service is not the best in the world since strikes occur in a common basis. Therefore those who wish to come to Lisbon should take this issue into account and choose to live close to the place where they think they will spend most time.
Inês Jesus
"Full of light" is an expression that easily describes Lisbon. Changes in local climate have been making the weather predictions unstable but while you may get a random day of rain in May, it is still true that you will get circa 300 days of sun in a year. Only the strongest can endure the tough decision of not procrastinating, so as to get the work done effectively (and done well, I might add) and still be able to take the most out of the sunny and warm parks and beaches that surround the city.
An intense workload is part of its strategy to prepare us to lead hectic lives and learn how to prioritize and understand what really matters (both in our work and in our lives). It also helps us in really getting to know the people we work with, and our colleagues always become some of our closest friends. Plus, with all the concerts, parks, bars, beaches and "cafés" to go to while you are here, an agenda really is what you might need to keep track of the most amazing time of your life.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to Nova School of Business and Economics
Edward Dostine
Europe gets cold. Who knew? Coming from Australia this was a rude shock. I wasn’t prepared having only brought a 3-2mm wetsuit. This meant my feet got numb after the first half an hour in the surf. Bring your winter jacket and your thick wetsuit, booties, glove and hoodie.
The way they structure the classes means each class you MUST prepare a presentation and report even if you aren’t presenting that week. However frustrating this system is, it means you do the readings and know your material.
Russia (St Petersburg)
As well as being one of the most beautiful cities in the world, St Petersburg is also a major trade gateway, business centre and international transport hub. Business is centred largely on the oil and gas, aerospace and heavy machinery industries – however, the city’s proximity to the Nordic countries has also led to an influence seen in St Petersburg’s emergence as Russia’s main centre for software and mobile technology. This city of over 340 bridges is also a serious cultural centre with more than 200 museums and 80 theatres spread over its 40 islands. Students in the city will be able to take in the world famous Mariinsky Ballet, the Male Choir of St Petersburg and also experience the ethereal ‘White Nights’ in June where the sun does not go down until midnight and the streets bustles with busy bars and restaurants.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$787 / $543
Cappuccino: US$2.96
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,213
Climate The average temperature for the year in St. Petersburg is 39.4°F (4.1°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 62.4°F (16.9°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 17.6°F (-8°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at St Petersburg Graduate School of Management
Kseniia Kotelnikova
The cultural difference in mentality influences the way things are done in the country, including the work pace in the university. A lot of Russians are used to doing things last moment - a point visiting students should to be aware of while joining the team with Russians
Russians don't tend to smile much and may seem grumpy, but are very friendly and open once you get to know them better.
We love foreigners, especially in St. Petersburg! We like to talk to them, hang out with them, take them to parties; and although there might be a language barrier, it never prevented someone from having fun.
Aleksey Konovalenkov
One should expect the things to be run differently in Russia than in the other countries: they change fast and suddenly, you never know what and when can happen. But that's the beauty of life - it is never boring!
Language might be a barrier in Russia, especially outside GSOM. But people appreciate efforts to integrate into the local culture. So it really pays off to learn a bit of history or cultural peculiarities of Russia beforehand.
Russia is much more than just St.Petersburg and Moscow, so use any possibility to travel outside those cities to discover some nice places all around the neighbouring regions.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to St Petersburg Graduate School of Management
Julius Osthues
Think about where you want to stay. We managed to find an apartment right on the beautiful Nevsky prospect and our flat was one reason why the time in St. Petersburg was full of such good memories.
Prepare for the cold! It´s definitely no secret that it can get cold in St. Petersburg, however don´t underestimate months in which the temperatures hit the low thirties, you will not be able to do a lot of outdoor activities. You will experience the cold in the summer term as well as in the winter term; so make sure to pack winter boots and a warm jacket. Nevertheless even those cold times are an interesting experience you don´t want to miss.
In St. Petersburg sightseeing never gets boring. Even though people told me the city is beautiful I was completely stunned walking over the famous Nevsky Prospekt and visiting the big cathedrals. Besides cultural activities the city also has a lot to offer if you are into clubbing or bar hopping. If you are living on the island (where the university is located) remember that the subway is not running during the night. Unfortunately it is rather hard to do sports; especially in the winter months there was a lack of good indoor offers. The University offers a Russian course and I highly recommend taking it, you will quickly learn the Cyrillic alphabet and it the Russians will be delighted if you try to talk to them in Russian.
Singapore
Only three and a half times as big as Washington DC, Singapore is now one of the world’s major economic hubs. The sovereign city-state boasts the fourth-biggest financial centre, one of the five busiest ports, the third-highest per capita income in the world, the world's second largest casino gambling market and the world's largest oil-rig producer. On top of this, Singapore attracts hordes of students – more than 80,000 international students studied in Singapore in 2006 and, in 2009, 20% of all students in Singaporean universities were international. With such a globalised intake, it isn’t surprising that about 44% of the workforce is made up of non-Singaporeans. A skilled workforce, low tax rates, advanced infrastructure and a huge amount of foreign investment should be convincing enough of Singapore’s economic prowess – but a fact to eradicate any doubt – Singapore is now home to the world's highest percentage of millionaires.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$2,833 / $1,820
Cappuccino: US$4.20
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,066
Climate The average temperature for the year in Singapore is 82.0°F (27.8°C). The warmest month, on average, is June with an average temperature of 84.0°F (28.9°C). The coolest month on average is December, with an average temperature of 80.0°F (26.7°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at National University Singapore (NUS)
Akanksha Batura
Don’t Let The Melting Pot Burn You. Singapore is truly a melting pot of cultures. One has enough to explore once they set foot in Singapore – be it the variety of cuisines, the myriad of cultures and religions or even the plethora of sights and sounds. While this sounds amazing to a traveler and an explorer, it also means one has to be unprejudiced and open-minded toward the inherent culture and behavior of Singaporeans. While I love Singapore, I know of many exchange students who grow tired and weary of Singaporean norms after a few weeks and resort to complaining about their surroundings. Once the negative attitude and complaining starts, everything around you seems tough to get through and that’s a terrible experience to have in a foreign country. So my first advice to anyone planning to come to Singapore, or the South East Asian region is to be completely open to new experiences.
Balance Quality and Quantity. Because Singapore is a relatively small country and is situated in the heart of South East Asia, many students choose to do their exchange in Singapore because of its strategic location in the region. Students usually use Singapore as their “home base” while they travel other neighboring countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos etcetera using the many affordable budget airlines departing from Singapore. While this is a great opportunity to explore the region, most students lose out on the activities and fun in Singapore itself because most of their free time is spent overseas. When not attending classes, most students are rushing assignments, packing for / unpacking from a trip or preparing for another overseas weekend stint. Though this lifestyle seems truly enviable to others looking through your profile on the assorted social media platforms like Facebook, it’s exhausting - it truly is. And it takes away from the experience of truly living in another location halfway across the world. It is important to note that Singapore is an affluent society and there are many top-notch activities – from museums, to tourism sites and even gastronomic experiences to partake in Singapore. Many students go back having lived in Singapore, but never having experienced much more than traveling from their home to NUS and back (and then perhaps from their home to the Singapore airport). Hence my second piece of advice is to balance the quality of time spent in Singapore with the quantity of time spent traveling.
Be Open. When overseas, it is tempting to stay within your comfort zone by hanging out with peers who are similar to you - either they hail from the same geographical region as yours, or they speak the same mother tongue as yours. However, it is important to branch out; I cannot stress the importance of this enough. Find people who are essentially different from your own profile and try to spend time with them; they may be from your same class, in your apartment or in your team. And don’t just sit with them during your mandatory breaks or free periods; instead, make the effort to go for dinners and coffees with them. These connections will add greatly to your time overseas – you will not be able to anticipate how your horizon will be broadened and your experience enriched. Therefore, my last and most pertinent piece of advice for anyone coming into Singapore is to interact with peers different from you and spend time with them.
Soh, Kok Yip
The grading system in Singapore is very different, in that a large percentage tends to be on projects, and final exams are usually about 40%, unlike the system in Europe where almost 100% is on the final exam. Furthermore, the classes in Singapore tend to go a lot more in-depth and the content is much more advanced, and is based on application, not just theory. Thus, we do a lot more (and more difficult) work throughout the semester, rather than just at the end.
As most residents in Singapore own their houses, the rental market is very illiquid. You would need to start looking for accommodation very early. On the flip side, condominiums (apartments that come with a pool and a gym) are fairly common, so it’s a good chance you would be able to stay in such a place. This is what I heard from a European friend – in Singapore, our food is very good, but our choices of bread are horrifyingly bad!
Advice from visiting CEMS students to National University Singapore (NUS)
Mathilde Louis
Be patient and demanding. Condominiums in Singapore have very high standards (pool, gym, tennis court…) so living there is actually very enjoyable, but just be aware that you will need to dedicate your first week to flat hunting. Make some appointments with a few agents when you arrive (before if possible) and be patient and demanding: they will show you the really good flats only after a few visits.
Singapore is the perfect hub to travel around South-East Asia. Make the most of your semester there: book Tigerair or Jetstar cheap flights and explore famous and less famous places in the region.
Keita Saito
Be careful when finding accommodation in Singapore: Housing in Singapore is notably expensive and its market is filled with limitations (for instance, many lease commitments have to be for a minimum period of six months). The process of touring apartments and finding roommates is stressful as it runs parallel to the block seminar and first classes. My advice would be to keep your options open. If you are able to negotiate appropriate prices and terms of stay with an agent, sharing an apartment may be a more economical option. However, there are other privately run student dormitories that provide convenient options for short-term stay as well.
Make sure you look for the queue in food places in Singapore: There are great food joints across the small island, especially within food centres known as "hawker" centres. They are scattered across the country with different specialties at each location. If you would like to make the most out of the unique food experience there, make sure you look for long queues at each food stall (Singaporeans love to queue) and don't be afraid to try out new delicacies (my favourite is “Hokkien Mee”). I was surprised by the amount of options, and if you are a foodie, it may be wise to plan your trips as some of the food centres may be out of your way.
Spain (Barcelona)
Football, flamenco dancing and good food are just a few of the reasons to visit Spain. Though the promise of wine, tapas and the occasional siesta is a draw for many students looking to sample Spanish culture, it’s also the country’s architecture that makes it a prime destination for many travellers. Spain is also home to the works of Antoni Gaudi – the Catalan architect behind many of the beautifully sculpted buildings found in Barcelona. Though Spain has traditionally been an agrarian economy, its Mediterranean coastline has helped to maintain a prosperous shipbuilding and trade industry. Further inland, the ICT and telecommunications sector is fast becoming a major contributor, with over 1,700 companies and 155 research institutes. As a result, the aerospace industry has also grown dramatically in recent years as local industry provides pioneering technology that has enabled companies both in Spain and around the world to expand internationally. It is still tourism that provides the nation’s main source of income, contributing nearly 11% to Spain’s GDP and employing approximately 2 million of the total labour force.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$878 / $667
Cappuccino: US$2.09
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,373
Climate The average temperature for the year in Barcelona is 59.9°F (15.5°C). The warmest month, on average, is August with an average temperature of 74.5°F (23.6°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 48.0°F (8.9°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at ESADE Business School
Sergi Capdevila
Barcelona is one of the best cities in Europe. We have good weather conditions most of the year, and there is very easy access to the coast and beautiful beach places as well as the Pyrenees for winter sports or mountain activities. Additionally, Barcelona and the Catalan area have an intense cultural offer to enjoy as a foreigner. The more you get involved with the culture, the better you get to know the people in Barcelona and their culture and traditions.
In Barcelona (and Spain) our life and work schedules are different to many other European countries. For example, we like having our meals late – we have lunch at 2pm, and dinner at 9pm at the earliest. This, along with our passion for improvising can be a cultural shock for some of the foreigners, but you can easily get used to that. Regarding food, tapas, sangria and paella are not the only meals we have. In Barcelona there are infinite food options for a reasonable price that you can enjoy if you are curious and like trying new things.
Carlos Silván
Spanish are usually extraverted and love doing things late: having lunch at 3, dinner after 9. Although siesta nowadays is more a myth than a reality, you do might encounter some lack of punctuality. Unless you come from the South of Europe or a Latin country, be ready to experience a small cultural shock!
Barcelona is the capital city of Catalonia, one of the most prosperous regions of Spain. Citizens of Catalonia are bilingual (Spanish and Catalan), and although many of them feel a deep affection for either or both of their languages, they will try to communicate with you in the way you feel more comfortable. Not speaking Catalan will never be a problem!
ESADE believes in a practice-oriented (rather than theory-oriented) teaching system. Be ready to uncover your critical thinking, work in several group projects the same time and present your achievements in public. Generally speaking, cooperation over competition between colleagues is encouraged.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to ESADE Business School
Zeynep Şençelebi
There are lots of things to see in Spain, not mentioning Barcelona itself, but on the down side there is little time for doing everything on your agenda so if I had known this beforehand, I would have picked my favourite destinations wisely.
If I had known that Barcelona has the best clubs and bars to hang out with my fellow CEMSies before, I would have brought more party dresses!
Alex Wallner
It is essential to know that Barcelona is also the capital of Catalunya, one of the autonomous regions in Spain. The Catalans are very proud and always have been fighting for their autonomy, which in recent years lead to heated debates and independence movements. One example of their national pride is the football club FC Barcelona which is seen as the national selection of Catalunya and their famous stadium Camp Nou. So be careful when talking about Barcelona as part of “Spain” :)
You can basically prepare for every kind of leisure or sport activity independent of the weather, e.g. skiing in the winter, beach in the summer with almost no restrictions. Moreover, Barcelona is famous for its architecture, both modern and historical - especially the Gaudi buildings - and rich cultural offers (e.g. MERCE city festival each September which parades, concerts and a lot of other activities all over the city).
Sweden (Stockholm)
Sweden's position as one of the world's most highly developed post-industrial societies looks fundamentally secure - unemployment is low and the economy strong. The Swedes enjoy an advanced welfare system, and their standard of living and life expectancy are almost second to none, living in a country known throughout the world for its political neutrality. The nation's capital, Stockholm is the most populous city in Scandinavia, spreading across 14 distinct islands. The vast majority of Stockholm’s residents work in the service industry, which accounts for roughly 85% of jobs in Stockholm. The almost total absence of heavy industry (and fossil fuel power plants) makes Stockholm one of the world's cleanest metropolises. The city is home to some of Europe’s top-ranked universities and hosts the annual Nobel Prize ceremonies and banquet.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$1,277 / $747
Cappuccino: US$4.41
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,364
Climate The average temperature for the year in Stockholm is 43.0°F (6.1°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 63.0°F (17.2°C). The coolest month on average is February, with an average temperature of 26.0°F (-3.3°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Stockholm School of Economics
Clara Nordlander
If the climate is what scares you – don’t worry. The winter weather is really not as bad as its reputation and you will have some beautiful snowy days. What will hit you is the darkness, but the never-ending summer nights will make it all worth the wait. There will also be opportunities to go skiing, visit Lapland and see the Northern lights.
If you aim at learning the language, you will soon realize that the language itself is not the biggest challenge, but the fact that the Swedes will be very enthusiastic about speaking English with you - and they do it perfectly. However, learning Swedish will give you an advantage if you want to work here and really get into the Swedish culture.
Accommodation in Stockholm is tricky - make use of your contacts, Facebook groups and be open for any solution in the beginning and everything will work out fine. It is easy to get around with public transport in Stockholm, but living close to school and the city center will definitely enhance your social life.
Max Friberg
Stockholm is beautiful, make sure you take the time to go and discover it! There’s easy to access nature, as big forests and the archipelago are both near to the city.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to Stockholm School of Economics
Anthony Solaire
Do not underestimate the Scandinavian winter. When you go to a Scandinavian country, you more or less know what to expect when November comes: dark afternoons, polar cold and slippery sidewalks. But knowing it and living it are two very different things. It’s not so much the cold or the 3pm sunset that will catch you by surprise: the impact the weather can have on your body is likely to teach you a lifetime lesson you are never to forget again. At first, you will certainly laugh at Swedish people grasping every sunray they can in the last days of summer, before it is too late. After that, you will realise that the lack of sun can have real implications on your mood and your health, and that 18-hour nights can tire you in ways you could never underestimate. So in Sweden, do as the Swedes, and enjoy every sunlight minute as if it was the last one.
Immerse yourself in the Swedish way-of-life. Experiencing the Swedish culture might not be your first reason to go and chose this country, mostly famous for its equalitarian society, its furniture retailers and its disco stars. But actually there are many things in the Swedish way-of-life that make it worth experiencing when studying there. Having lived for centuries in cold winters and hostile environment, the country has developed a sense of exquisite cosiness you might never experience anywhere else. Trying the “fika” tradition is taking the coffee break to a whole new level of delight, with its Swedish cinnamon-based pastries, warm blankets and scented candles. Getting to know the Swedish people will also help you understand better that “lågom” (“just enough” or equivalent to the idiom “less is more”) is not only a word: it is a philosophy at the roots of this consensus-based society.
Know how to work with Swedish people. Talking about this culture of consensus, there are some things you might want to know regarding how to study and work with Swedish people. Swedes have a very flat vision of what hierarchy can be. As such, teachers expect you to challenge them, and very often participation weights very heavily in your final grade. Also in a group work, do not expect to have short, straight-forward meetings: each one’s opinions are carefully taken into account, and each decision needs to satisfy all the participants, no matter how long it might take to find a conclusion suitable for everyone. Patience is a virtue.
Switzerland (St. Gallen)
Switzerland forms a European cultural and linguistic crossroads – its population speaks German, French and Italian. However, some sources argue that Latin is the third most used language as it appears on stamps and coins as "confoederatio helvetica" or "helvetia", which is the Latin name of Switzerland. With a history of political stability, Switzerland is a centre of global wealth and a safe haven from world financial turmoil. It is not uncommon for investors across the world to use its banks, and the country enjoys the highest nominal wealth per adult according to one of the banks, Credit Suisse. However Switzerland is also among the most expensive countries in the world to live in. St. Gallen is the home of one of UNESCO’s unique world heritages – The Abey of St. Gaall – which holds books dating as far back as the 9th century. The city has good transport links to the rest of the country and to neighbouring Germany and Austria. It also functions as the gateway to the Appenzell Alps, offering high altitude adventure for those brave enough.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$1,426 / $1,175
Cappuccino: US$4.54
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,209
Climate The average temperature for the year in St. Gallen is 45.3°F (7.4°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 61.0°F (16.1°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 30.0°F (-1.1°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at University of St. Gallen
Cosima Bader
A large surprise may be the comparatively limited opening hours of stores: Typically stores will close at 7pm, including grocery stores, and everything remains closed on Sundays and public holidays. Banks will close before 5pm daily and even remain closed on Saturdays. However, if you are staying in a larger city, some stores inside the main train station may be open at a higher price premium.
Next to general living, traveling is very expensive: popular low-cost airlines mostly fly out of Basel and Geneva (not Zurich Airport!), which has to be taken into account for planning trips - getting to the airport may be more expensive than the flight itself. Therefore, it often pays off to invest in a "1/2 tax” (Half-fare card for all public transport) - you can even return the card at the end of your stay and get a refund for the months that you didn’t use.
In the Swiss-German part of the country, you will encounter the locally spoken idiom of Swiss German (picture Dutch minus the tall people). If you think you understand Swiss German because you are / speak German already, you may be in for a surprise the first time you overhear the locals in conversation. Many Swiss Germans still consider High German their first foreign language and are therefore reluctant to speak it - especially with native German speakers who will point out how “adorable” and “cute” the Swiss accent sounds to them - a comment of this sort will most likely be perceived as an insult. Switzerland may therefore also not be the best place if you are looking to improve your German skills.
Pascal Egloff
aking the time to stroll through the picturesque old town is well worth the visit. Even after years of living here one is still able to find new places and surprises. It is perfectly located for exploring both nature (for example, the mountains in Appenzell, lake of Constance) and bigger cities (such as Zurich, Munich, etc.). Though the weather is quite unpredictable, the open-minded people, a vast variety of cultural offers (theatre, concerts, festivals, football, etc.) and the big fairs (OLMA and OFFA) compensate this by far. A unique mix of cosiness and adventurous experiences is guaranteed.
Advice from visiting CEMS students to University of St. Gallen
Sara Montonen
The country is very well organized. This is reflected in everything from university course selection methods to trash collection. Choosing courses is done very democratically; each student is given a certain amount of points to allocate to courses by how much they want the course. In terms of waste management, the Swiss have an interesting way of trying to get people to cut down the amount of garbage: one trash bag costs 2 francs and garbage can only be disposed of in official bags. Since people pay real money for their garbage, people are more inclined to think more carefully about what they throw away.
Switzerland is an extremely diverse country. There are four official languages (German, French, Italian and Romansh) so students commonly speak one or two languages in addition to English. Switzerland is also very diverse in climate and geography as the country ranges from mountainous and glacial to flat and Mediterranean. Traveling through Switzerland can feel quite bizarre, as it is like being in four different countries at the same time.
Emir Çetinel
Small is beautiful. While St. Gallen is a small city (especially when you come from a city of 17 million) it still offers a lot. There are really nice cafes, restaurants and shops, and the high student population makes the place really attractive. This is particularly true on the weekends when there is nice weather and you have the Swiss Alps on your doorstep.
Public transport costs are prohibitive. It is well-known that Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Even so, you might be shocked at train ticket prices. It would be naïve to expect to have a budget-friendly tour around Switzerland by train to enjoy the incredible scenery.
Turkey (Istanbul)
Straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, Turkey's location has given it major influence. As a huge city that also has land on both continents, Istanbul has developed into the country's economic, cultural, and historical heart. With a skyline of minarets and skyscrapers, around 14 million people call Istanbul their home – making it one of the biggest cities on Earth – and though not Turkey’s capital, the city’s strategic position has made it one of the fastest-growing metropolitan economies in the world. It is responsible for 27% of Turkey's GDP, with 20% of the country's industrial labour force living within the city boundaries. The country as a whole has enjoyed strong growth, fuelled by trade and foreign investment – further bolstered by the key sectors of tourism, agriculture and manufacturing. With a huge population and substantial contribution to the Turkish economy, Istanbul is responsible for two-fifths of the nation's tax revenue. It’s a city with a sense of energy and innovation that seeps into the streets of exquisite Ottoman mosques and happening restaurants, bars and galleries – a city that’s growing in both cultural influence and economic ability.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$518 / $279
Cappuccino: US$2.73
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,365
Climate The average temperature for the year in Istanbul is 58.0°F (14.4°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 74.0°F (23.3°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 42.0°F (5.6°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at Koç University
Emir Çetinel
Istanbul is one colorful, massive playground that offers unforgettable experiences for its inhabitants. If you have an adventurous soul, and are willing to devote time to it then you should be well prepared to experience something different every single day. That may be a bold statement, yet it is not an exaggeration; Istanbul has so much to offer that even the locals are not aware of all the facets of this vibrant city. One day, you might be having your shisha while watching the beautiful Bosphorus view and on the other day, you might be sipping on your cocktail in a fancy bar overlooking the crowd in Beyoglu.
Situated in the middle of a pine forest, the Koç University campus not only provides a perfect atmosphere for learning, but also is great for having fun. Students can enjoy their fresh fruit juice under the sun by the swimming pool, have fun at the golf course after class or do ice-skating at the giant skating ring in wintertime!
Zeynep Şençelebi
Traffic in Istanbul is sometimes unbearable. I strongly advise visitors to be aware of this circumstance and to plan their trips accordingly.
We have the best food here in Turkey. So, they have to take into consideration that they are going to gain few kilos before they are heading to their next destination.
United Kingdom (London)
London is undoubtedly one of the world’s great international cities – a mecca for culture, history, business, tourism and study. The capital of the UK is renowned for its global outlook and as a melting pot rivalled by few others for its mix of people, food, arts and influences from around the world. The city’s hosting of the 2012 Olympics was heralded by many as the benchmark for future games and international students have the pick of some of the world’s foremost universities. London is a global leader in the finance sector with many of the world’s leading banks and insurance companies headquartered in one of two financial centres – the ancient City of London or the newer metropolis of Canary Wharf. As a trading nation with over 500 years of doing business with countries all over the world, the UK has impacted global business relations as much as any other nation on earth and, despite high living costs, London remains one of the top locations for international students of all kinds.
Cost of living
1-bedroom apartment inside / outside city center: US$2,440 / $1,541
Cappuccino: US$4.02
MacBook Pro 13” (with student discount) approx US$1,232
Climate The average temperature for the year in London is 50.5°F (10.3°C). The warmest month, on average, is July with an average temperature of 63.1°F (17.3°C). The coolest month on average is January, with an average temperature of 39.7°F (4.3°C).
Advice from local CEMS students at the London School of Economics
Amy Thompson
Food in London is NOT Bad: There is a common misapprehension that food in London is bad - this could not be further from the truth. The quality and variety of food on offer is astounding, however you do have to be careful. As in any capital city, some of the worst (and most overpriced) restaurants can be found at tourist destinations. Avoid Leicester Square and Covent Garden, and head instead for places like Borough Market for fantastic street food, or a winding alley or side road in Soho. It's really worth investing the time to find a hidden gem rather than following the crowds.
The Tube: Transport is relatively reliable, but more expensive in London than in other capital cities. If you can, locate within walking distance of the university - all of the LSE halls are a short walk from campus. If you do end up on the tube, avoid central hub stations such as Oxford Circus and Victoria at rush hour, especially in the morning. If you do have to travel before 9am, leave extra time, as some lines become extremely congested in the mornings!
Museums are Free: Many of the largest museums in London grant free access to their permanent collections. It's really worth taking advantage of this, as there are so many to visit and they are all so uniquely impressive. My favourites are the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A), the National Portrait Gallery, and the Tate Britain. They also have wonderful cafés.
Student Discounts are Everywhere: An awful lot of shops, restaurants, museums and cinemas in London offer a student discount (usually around 10%), so it's always worth asking if there is a discount. You can purchase discount cards online via the student union for a small fee.
London Nightlife is Diverse: There is something for everyone. While many flock to big and famous nightclubs, websites like the Nudge give an 'alternative' view of what's on offer, from bars and clubs to shows and pop-up events.
It Doesn't Always Rain: The weather in London is not that bad. It can get relatively cold in winter, and April showers are common, but the sun does shine!
Advice from visiting CEMS students to the London School of Economics
Akanksha Batura
Join a Club. There are tons of active and great clubs at LSE – run by passionate individuals who care a great deal about their respective causes. Though some of them have a token membership fee, it’s worth the minimal cost to learn about more about a topic you’re unfamiliar with, or to indulge in themes you are fervently zealous about. It exposes you to people similar to you from other parts of the world and you gain different perspectives to look at the same topics.
Take a Non-Graded Course. Do yourself a favour and enroll in a few courses that you enjoy, but don’t want to have the stress of doing well in; essentially, you can take these courses on a “non-graded” basis, and yet be entitled to get all the online course catalogues and readings as well. So free yourself from the obligations of getting that good grade and let your mind wander in the beauty of unrestrained and contagious pursuit of knowledge.
Get To Know Your Professors. Getting to know professors will better your understanding of the working world, and making a personal relationship with them would mean that they would be able to contact you if they come to your home university anytime in the future – for a short term conference, or for long term teaching periods. If you get to know them well enough, you will realize that some of them may be working with professors you know in your own home university, or may be their friends. Additionally, most of them are open and excited to get to meet students interested in them and their subject matter; you will feel warmly welcomed by them. Don’t feel intimidated, you too will have new and different perspectives for them to consider regarding their topic of interest.
Soh, Kok Yip
Strategy for student accommodation. Not having any experience with being in the UK, and fearing I would be stranded as I was arriving just before New Year’s Eve, I secured my housing with private student accommodation. However, I later learnt from schoolmates that a lot of the school halls have some rooms in reserve, which are much cheaper than residing in private accommodation, and you get to be with other students from LSE too.
Musical and theatre tickets can be booked months in advance, for much cheaper. If I’d known, I would have booked my tickets before I arrived in the UK, and would have managed to watch a lot more than I actually did!
Tube strikes and breakdowns are relatively common, and they lead to the whole of London practically going into gridlock. In retrospect, it was lucky that I lived within a 25-minute walk to school, so I was relatively unaffected. London is a very nice city to walk in as well, so living somewhere walkable ensures that you get to see a lot of the non-touristy sites.
Andrea Bianchi
London is great and it has a wide offer of places and events for all the tastes. You can visit really interesting museums, walking around nice neighbourhoods, have a good dinner in one of the thousands of international restaurants spread around the city… all just in few minutes by tube!
Roger Wu
Opening Hours. The first time I went to Oxford Street at around 5 p.m. on a Sunday was not too much fun since stores are already closed then, even though they still keep the lights on.
Fireworks. It took almost an hour on the tube to watch a said-to-be-one-of-the-best fireworks, which turned out to be one of the shortest fireworks I have ever seen, since it only lasted around 10 to 15 minutes and was not worth mentioning to a Chinese, who basically grew up with various fireworks shows.
Markets and parks. Markets in London are full of “Made in China” products with much higher prices but parks are truly amazing and they are worth a very long stay.
