Are you going to start university in Murcia this year? Congratulations! Get ready to live one of the best stages of your life... and do it in a city that combines sun, history, terraces, good vibes and very cool people.

And because we know that moving to a new city can be imposing at first, we're bringing you this guide for students in Murciaso that you arrive with your feet firmly on the ground, survive the Murcian heat and, above all, make the most of your new university life in Murcia..

Tip 1: Survive the heat like a real Murcian

Murcia is the city of 365 days of sunshine. And no, we are not exaggerating. Here the sun is unforgiving, especially in the first months of the academic year. So take note:

• Hydrate yourself (water, slushies and, if you can, a cold Estrella Levante marinera).
• The shadow is gold, it will be your best friend.
• Fans are not just for grandmothers: they are survival essentials.
• Visit the Murcian coast! Without a car? No problem. Right next to The Open Faculty you have the bus station to escape to the coast. The Mar Menor and Mar Mayor are top plans to unwind at weekends.

Tip 2: Parties not to be missed (but always after studying)

Studying in Murcia also means enjoying its incredible festive life, so make a note of these key dates:

• Murcia Fair (September): You arrive just at the same time, and you are greeted with concerts, barracas, "Los Huertos" and lots of Murcian atmosphere.
• Spring Festival (April): the city is transformed. The Bando de la Huerta and the Burial of the Sardine are two festivals declared to be of International Tourist Interest. Yes, international, because in Murcia we don't mess around.
• Easter Week in Murcia: tradition, excitement... and sweets, beans, sandwiches and sweets (and yes, it's real).

And that's just the beginning, Murcia is full of surprises all year round!

Tip 3: The Segura River and the Malecón: your new meeting point

Did you know that The Open Faculty is in one of the most beautiful areas of Murcia? Study next to the Segura Riverin the middle of Malecon promenadeis a privilege.

And what's more... you're just a 5-minute walk from the heart of Murcia. Literally, everything is within walking distance!

Tip 4: Where to eat breakfast and lunch (with decent wifi)

If you go to living in Murcia as a studentIf you're looking for the best places to eat and unwind, you need to know where the best places to eat and unwind are. Here are some local gems:

Happy Monday breakfasts:

• CaféLab (Plaza de los Apóstoles): good coffee and quiet atmosphere.
• Pan Moreno (near the Faculty): natural breakfasts, where we recommend their range of homemade sponge cakes.
• Starbucks (next to the Corte Inglés): You already know this one, but it's always a good option to go with a laptop and coffee.
• Glea (next to the Cathedral): instagrammable and delicious breakfasts.

Eat well (and without going broke):

• Café Bar Veronicas: 2 minutes away from the classroom, cannelloni, lobster horses and tapas from Murcia.
• Café Bar (Santo Domingo): Don't know where to try your first Murcian marinera? This is the place for you! Take note of this place where the murcianos call it "El Tontodromo".
• Andalusian Parliament (Plaza de las Flores): Pure Murcianism just a stone's throw from The Open Faculty.
• The Bear Cave: in the heart of the tascas area, perfect for montaditos and tapas.

Tip 5: Will you make friends in Murcia?

Of course! The university community in Murcia is very active and welcoming. At The Open Faculty you will find an international and close environment, where making friends is almost automatic.

And between classes, university activities, volunteering and The Open Faculty events, it won't take you long to find your place. Also, many students come from abroad, so you are not alone, there are lots of people in the same situation as you!

Why does everyone end up staying in Murcia?

Because it is a comfortable, lively, friendly city, with lower prices than other big cities, a booming cultural offer and a very special energy. You can get around by bike, tram or on foot, eat well without going broke and enjoy the sun like never before.

And if you study in The Open FacultyYou have it even easier, privileged location, practical classes, close teaching staff and an international community like few others!

Welcome to your new city!

Studying in Murcia is more than just going to class, it is discovering new places, laughing, discovering and building a unique stage, getting to know the heat and realising that you have made the right choice.