Vysoka Skola Banska - Technicka Univerzita Ostrava

Most students speak english, although english knowlege is almost exclusive to students. Some other people speak German or Russian. In the beggining I tried to learn the local language, but couldn't manage to find a teacher. The exchange students' support staff wasn't very helpfull in this. Only very near to the end of my stay I found that only a few steps from my residence was a language school with classes of Czech for foreigners.

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You might find it hard to travel around, not because there's no access to transports (in the train station you have trains leaving to everywhere from Germany to Moscow), but because you'll find it hard to leave this worderfull town. But Ostrava is close to so many places worth visit that it's almost a shame if you don't. Beware of pickpockets and car thieves. Two friends of mine lost a wallet with almost 100 Euros (100 USDollars) and the car radio in the very first day because they where not properly warned. Also be careful about your jackets and so in night spots. But it's not a dangerous place, and if you take a bit of care it will be a fine experience.

The favourite and almost only night spot is Stodolni street. I could advise one or more pubs/discos/cafés, but there's everything for every taste, and easy to find also. There's also some nice cafés and restaurants in the centre (I advise 'N. 10'), but these are not as easy to find. I recomend you would meet some local people (students and young people are more than helpful) to guide you through these. Cultural events are also trhiving troughout the city everyday.

Although it wasn't bad and it was quite cheap, from the information I had got from the host university I was expecting better. For instance, they gave us option to have a single room and when we arrived these rooms did not exist.