We tag along with the Spanish artist, 31. A product of the Erasmus experience, he prepares his pictures for an exhibition gracing the Andalucian Centre of Flamenco in Jerez, Cadiz

The upcoming European Summit in Lisbon (18 – 19 October) sees the contents of the new constitutional treaty definitively fixed. Sylvie Goulard, former counsellor for then European Commission president Romano Prodi, teaches the dummies

A MySpace for backpackers, ‘The Hospitality Club’ allows its members to host and connect with each other and exchange free accommodation all over Europe

The concept of working abroad has changed hugely - two generations explain why they left their countries. Third in our 'Crossed Portraits' series, marking 50 years of Europe

Integration must happen in-situ, with your neighbours - not with Brussels, says Slovak Ján Figel', European Commissioner for Education, Training and Culture

Endless parties, sprawling sports fields, a huge park and diverse roommates from the four corners of the globe - a room in the Cité University is extremely sought after amongst Erasmus students in Paris

Name: Erasmus. Date of birth : 1987. Birthplace: Brussels - the European institutions are rather proud of their baby, which celebrates 20 years in 2007

Since European enlargement kicked into swing in May 2004, there has been a 6% boost in the number of exchanges between universities in Europe.

Since the gift of the Erasmus exchange programme, more and more young Europeans have fallen in love abroad. But on return to their home countries, euphoria soon gives way to everyday problems. Three couples tell their story.