Hi, I made a post about how I have a chance to study for a semester in Budapest, Hungary and it sounds really cool, but there is one other option and thought I'd ask just so I don't dismiss it immediately: Reykjavík, Iceland. I also know next to nothing about Iceland, whether it's safe for students, if it's welcoming, if it's a good place for an American to study at, so might as well ask about it as well. It also sounds fascinating admittedly

you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
[–] 26 points 21 hours ago (3 children)

Iceland is extremely safe and welcoming. Honestly, one of the coolest places I've been on the planet. Nothing else like it. The geography and ecology of that island is just cool as hell lol.

The people are all very kind and welcoming and it has a sort of communal vibe that is partly a mix of island and Scandinavian cultures. Awesome place and awesome people.

It is expensive. That is the only thing I would say is a drawback. For me, I think it is definitely worth it.

  • source
  • hideshow 3 child comments
  • [–] 11 points 20 hours ago (2 children)

    Yeah; seeing Iceland and Budapest as options, I think: “Budapest: relatively cheap, lots of culture. Iceland: trendy and cool, but only if you like waterfalls and darkness and windswept vistas with pretty much no trees. And REALLY expensive.” The people are great in both places. There’s LOTS of tourists everywhere in Iceland in the summer, and the entire population of the island would vanish in Budapest in the winter. So it depends on what you like and when you’re going/for how long.

  • source
  • parent
  • hideshow 2 child comments
  • [–] [S] 1 point 20 hours ago (1 child)

    Hmm I guess I want deep history and culture, not to be corny lol

  • source
  • parent
  • hideshow 1 child comment
  • [–] 3 points 14 hours ago*

    Then Budapest is the obvious choice. Iceland does have an interesting history, but you won’t see it if you don’t actively look for it. Especially Reykjavik is a pretty modern city.

    Budapest was one of the biggest cultural centers of of Southeastern Europe for centuries. You’ll find history and the cultures it was influenced by everywhere you go.

    Edit: I don’t know if this also applies to non-EU students, but lots of universities are partnered with each other and allow you to take one semester abroad. Might be worth looking into

  • source
  • parent