Université de Nantes

Be careful not to saty with people who are natives from your country. I saw many people like this, especially among Brits and Irish. When they came to the end of their year their language ability was still very poor. Buy an under 26 travel card once in France. This gives you 50% reduction on public transport.

Any student must register with the CAF. This will allow you to claim money from the state to assist with lodging costs. It is a slightly lengthy process but well worth it as noramally you be able to clain 40% of your rent back.

I made really rapid progress and communicating after a couple of months was no problem at all. Each day I would often learn a new word or phrase as I spent most my time with French or Latin people.

My favourite bar was definitely 'Le sal gosse, (the naughty kid!) Really cool music with a young and fun clientele and friendly staff. 'Le lieu Unique' is more of a nightclub which is well worth a visit. Used to be a biscuit factory but was converted by the Mere of Nantes to offer local DJs and artists the chance to perform. As with most French cities there is a couple of Irish pubs. The John McBurns is ideally located and friendly too with the usual array of Irish liquor for sale. Traditional Irish music by local musicians on a Sunday.

The accomadation was fairly basic however, it was an ideal place to meet lots of different people from lots of different countries. There were many evenings spent playing cards or having a drink where there would be 5 or 6 nationalities in one room.