Experience in Antwerp, Belgium by Simon

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

For the moment, Antwerp's transportation is a mess, as they are working on the roads almost everywhere. Most troublesome work is the renovation of the 'Italiëlei' and 'Frankrijklei'. Expect a lot of traffic jams if you go to Antwerp by car.

What is the student lifestyle like in Antwerp?

Awesome, as a student myself, I can visit multiple jazz-bars and regular cozy ones. There are also a lot of awesome clubs where sometimes studentparties are taking place.

How much does it cost to live in Antwerp?

Normal Belgian prices, no real big difference except maybe for the accomodations.

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

For dorms: there are usually enough studio's and such available. The student dorms are usually situated near the clubs, so expect some noise at night, especially on Tuesday and Thursday.

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

Not much special, except of course the beer. Try out 'Koninck', the black beer from Antwerp!

What places would you recommend visiting in Antwerp?

The cathedral, the MAS ('Museum Aan de Stroom') and, if you like to go shopping, the Meir (shopping street)

Source

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

Pizza: Giovanni's, at Groenplaats. They have 3 restaurants all next to each other.

Hamburgers: 'De Burgerij', which also have several restaurants spread out over Antwerp. Ellis, situated near the central station (Keyserlei) is also a very nice and chique hamburger-restaurant.

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

See student lifestyle.

What advice would you give future students heading to Antwerp?

Everyone can speak at least some English, so communicating wont be much of an issue. Generally speaking, Antwerp is also very safe, maybe the only somewhat dangerous place is 'Schipperskwartier', where the hookers (but also a few nightclubs) are. Never go alone to a club is also a good advice, altough that could be said about every club worldwide.