Experience in Amsterdam, Netherlands by Esther

What is it like to live in Amsterdam? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Yes, I would recommend it. It's a great place with a lot of different nationalities and different cultures living there. You can find a wide variety of museums. Also there are all kinds of theater shows to choose from and a lot of different festivals during the summer, such as the grachtenfestival. So a lot to keep you entertained! The traffic is something to get used to, especially the amount of bikes and how bikers maneuver themselves between cars.

What is the student lifestyle like in Amsterdam?

Quite some students join a student association. This means coming together at least once a week and it depends on the kind of association what your activities are. But all student associations like partying.

How much does it cost to live in Amsterdam?

Housing for students is pretty expensive and it's difficult to find a room. Food in the supermarket is not very expensive. It has a 'normal' price. Since I don't have a car, I don't pay for parking.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Amsterdam? Is there any advice you can give?

Yes, it's quite difficult. I registered on studentenwoningweb which provides affordable rooms for students. The longer you're registered the more chance you'll have to find a room.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

My favorite dish is a pancake with cheese and bacon. I love pancake restaurants. Also poffertjes are great, which you can also get in a pancake restaurant. And I'm one of the Dutch that likes French fries with mayonnaise, and then preferably not the thin French fries but the thick Flamish ones.

What places would you recommend visiting in Amsterdam?

Stadskantine and RimRijksmuseum, Van Gogh museum, Anne Frank House (although there always is a huge queue).

Is the nightlife good in Amsterdam? Where is good to go?

Yes, I think most of the clubs close at 4. I believe it is a rule. There are some good places to go dancing and there is a variety of music you can choose from.

What advice would you give future students headed to Amsterdam?

Go during the summer. The city is beautiful in the sun. Go to some festivals. There often is a nice relaxed atmosphere. And have some budget to spend on housing if you want to live in or close to the center. And get a bike would be nice but watch out for the cars, buses, trams etc.