I had been planning to do an Erasmus semester for a long time, but I never had the courage or motivation to actually go through with it. Finally, in the winter semester of 2025/26, I decided to take the leap. Looking back now, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only academically, but also on a personal level, I learned so much that will be of great benefit to me in the future.

Academic Life

I am studying Mathematics and Sports to become a teacher, and when I decided to do my Erasmus semester, I had just finished my Bachelor’s degree. Therefore, I spent my first Master’s semester in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital city of the Canary Islands.

I enrolled in two sports-related courses and three pedagogical courses. The sports courses were called Ejercicio Físico y Salud and Educación Física. They mainly focused on how to teach sports to children and what the most important aspects of physical education are. Both courses were very interesting, and it was exciting to gain insight into how sports education is approached differently in other countries.

The three pedagogical courses were Didáctica de la Lectoescritura y de la Literatura, Intervención Socioeducativa para la Inclusión de Personas y Comunidades en Riesgo de Exclusión, and Intervención Educativa en las Dificultades del Lenguaje Oral y Escrito. In these courses, we learned a lot about how teaching methods in Las Palmas differ from those in Austria, which was very interesting to observe.

All courses were taught in Spanish, which was quite challenging at the beginning since my language level was only A1–A2. However, all the professors at Campus Obelisco, the campus for students training to become teachers, were very supportive, especially during the first few weeks. This made it much easier to settle in and adapt to studying in a new environment. They often provided additional materials in English or translated important parts specifically for Erasmus students.

Social Life

When it comes to climate and weather, there is no better place to live than the Canary Islands. Due to their proximity to the equator, temperatures remain mild throughout the year and it never gets particularly cold. Winter temperatures range between 17 and 25 degrees Celsius, while summer temperatures usually vary between 22 and 31 degrees.

If you enjoy warm weather as much as I do, the Canary Islands are by far one of the best places in Europe to live. But the island has much more to offer than just sunshine. The center of Gran Canaria is mountainous, making it perfect for hiking and long walks in nature. In the south of the island, in Maspalomas, you can find impressive sand dunes right next to the ocean, where you almost feel as if you are in the middle of a desert.

The well-maintained road network also makes the island ideal for cycling tours. At Playa de las Canteras, the largest beach in Las Palmas, you have the opportunity to play beach volleyball or beach tennis, or go surfing. There is also a surf school called California Surf Center, located next to La Cícer, where you can rent surfboards for a longer period of time at a much lower price if you plan to surf regularly. They also provide wetsuits and all the necessary equipment (https://californiasurfcenter.com/).  

Accommodation

My accommodation was located right next to Playa de las Canteras, which I would highly recommend. Especially at the beginning of the semester, many Erasmus events take place nearby or directly on the beach. Being able to leave your apartment and reach the beach within a few minutes is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Even later in the semester, when you have found your group of friends and may not attend Erasmus events as often anymore, most bars and clubs are still located close to the beach.

Summary

Looking back, I can confidently say that my Erasmus semester changed me in a very positive way. I met people from all around the world, many of whom have become close friends. I probably experienced the best winter of my life, one that I will never forget.

So, if you are reading this and still wondering whether you should do an Erasmus semester or not: stop hesitating and go for it! I can guarantee that it will be worth it. Gran Canaria is a beautiful place to live, with wonderful people and countless experiences waiting for you.

Photos & Text: Johannes Striednig