Student:	Sarah
Location:	Nice
Accommodation:	Residence
Course:	Super-Intensive 30 lessons per week

My experience in Nice was worthwhile and enjoyable. The teaching was excellent. On arrival in Nice, I sat a level test to determine my level of French which ensured I was studying alongside students of my own ability. The classes were conducted entirely in French but if there is any difficulty understanding something, the teachers are well trained with lots of experience with overseas students and will explain in simpler terms. In the classes we would study grammar points, read and discuss magazine and newspaper articles and watch videos, listen to tapes and practice conversation to improve the crucial linguistic skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking.

I chose residence accommodation which was clean, comfortable and fully equipped with all facilities. Each student is given a large open plan studio with dining area and en-suite bathroom. I found living in the residence to be fun because it gave me the chance to meet other students from all over the world. The international nature of things meant that most of the time the common language was French. Residence accommodation means that you can go out with other students, or spend time alone studying - it's your choice!

There is plenty to do in Nice, My favourite tourist hotspot was the old-town which dates back to medieval times. There are plenty of shops and markets, offering shoppers a good variety from small souvenir shops to large department stores. I also visited the flower market, and took a leisurely stroll down the famous Promenade des Anglais. Also known as the bay of arts, Nice has 3 theatres, an opera house and many museums and art galleries.

A bustling city, Nice is much more than just a beach holiday but if your idea of fun is topping up your tan on the beach, you couldn't be in a better place. Nice is lively by day, but even livelier by night. There are a host of bars, cafes and restaurants to sample. The main night spots are at Vieux Nice and Rue Messanna where you can stay out late into the night if you want. There are also many excursions to be made from Nice e.g. to St Tropez, Monte Carlo & Cannes.

By the end of my course, my French had reached a high degree of fluency. My time at the Vis-A-Vis school in Nice helped me to achieve a good honours degree in French and also gave me the relevant skills to find language based employment, in my case with Vis-A-Vis UK. I also made many good friends in the resisidence and the classroom who I am still in contact with even now.