Erasmus Experience in Brussels, Belgium by aristea

Why did you choose to go to Brussels, Belgium?

Because i wanted to practice and enrich my knowledge of the French language.

Also, Belgium might be a small country but it has a great history, it is very interresting politically and moreover it is has a great place, geographically, in Europe and as far as transports are concerned, it is really well connected with its surrounding countries.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I stayed for 6 months and i had a founding of around 450 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Brussels?

I had the chance (or missfortune, you could call it however you like) to study in a department of UCL in Brussels where there was only one faculty so i do not really know how the typical "student lifestyle" is. Nevertheless, i had an absolutely great time in Belgium.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Brussels to other students?

Off course!

What is the food like?

I don't really know... i used to cook at my home most of the times.

But "frites" were always a good choice, especially after going out and "la carbonade flamande" was absolutely delicious!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Brussels?

Not that much but i was pretty lucky and extremely precautious and this site was not of great help actually... Also all of my friends had a really hard time finding a place to stay.

How much does it cost to live in Brussels?

It is quite expensive but it always depends on your standards. The price varies from 250euros up to 450euros when you live in a collocation. Good luck if you want to find a place all alone!

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available in the University?

There are language courses in the university campus in Louvain-La-Neuve.

The first week at the university is quite difficult... I left the faculty always with a headache... but you get quickly used to the new environment, especially if you already know a little bit the language and if you try to speak always in french.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Brussels from your city?

By plane!

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Brussels?

Most people like Delirium... I loved Floris! I adored Place Flagey, Maison du Peuple and Supra Bailli!

When it is not raining and it is not really cold, i strongly advise you to go to the parks, walk around the city and (during Spring and Summer especially) watch out for the festivals, the concerts and the "fetes" which are being organised all over the city!

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Brussels?

I usually ate in the "fritteries" which are everywhere in the city, loved the one near Bourse!

"Le cigale" is a really good restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere. There are, also, many good restaurants near Sainte Cathrine.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are many sites to visit. Just google "Brussels sightseeing" and you will find plenty! It always depends on what you like...

Is there any other advice that you could give to future students who are going to Brussels?

Enjoy every minute!

Have fun!

Meet new people!Socialise!

La vie est belle...especially in Brussels!