Experience in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

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

Living in Amsterdam is even better than I expected. I would totally recommend it as much for the quality of life (riding your bike near the canals to go to work, birds everywhere, crazy night life but also relaxing places) than for the richness of the cultural life. The city is clean, realxing and exciting at the same time.

What is the student lifestyle like in Amsterdam?

The student lifestyle in Amsterdam can't be compared to anywhere else. I already studied in France and in Madrid. Madrid was really crazy, but in Amsterdam I also feel like home.

How much does it cost to live in Amsterdam?

If you take the rent (around 650euros for a studio outside the center, but who cares with a bike !) plus the entertainment and the groceries, it's around 1500 euros more or less.

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

IYes it is difficult, especially in September with all the new students. That's why I created a page about it with all the websites and tips : 

https://find-a-room-amsterdam.zeef.com/

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

Dutch specialities are like super heavy but good. Fortunately you can burn calories with your bike. (Yes I know I can't stop talking about my bike, I love it). But Dutch people have healthy food habits. The food is fresh almost everywhere and even in the most lame pub you will have fresh orange juice. You have also a lot of Indonesian, Thai, Surenamean restaurants due to the colonial past of The Netherlands. Please try the indonesian food it's CRAZY ! And about Dutch food try kaassouflé, croquettes and harings.

What places would you recommend visiting in Amsterdam?

Bar: Hanneke's Boom, Baut, Volkshotel (awesome roof terrace)

Nightclub: Chicago Social Club, Ludwig, and especially TROUW

Concert: Paradiso (an old church which is now a music temple), Melkweg, Bitterzoet

Museum: Rijksmuseum, The Eye, Electric Ladyland (a small museum about fluorescent art created by a really cool American hippie)

Is it good to eat out in Amsterdam? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

I love it, you have the choice with so much kind of restaurants from all over the world. 

To eat quickly go to La Place, Burgermeester's burgers are awesome, the New King is the best chinese restaurant and go to the indonesian restaurant in the flower market street. It's delicious.

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

Oh.

My.

God.

Go to Trouw, Chicago Social Club, Melkweg, Paradiso, Sugar Factory, Ludwig oh and did I already mention Trouw?

What advice would you give future students headed to Amsterdam?

Enjoy as much as you can but stay realistic. Try to learn some Dutch words, so you won't be just another tourist in Amsterdam.