Experience in Antwerp, Belgium by Virat

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

Antwerp is a beautiful place to live it. Being the centre of Europe, it offers a number of opportunities and travelling across Europe from Antwerp is really easy due to the proximity to many other major cities and towns. The place is extremely neat and very organized. The transport facilities and next to none. Tons of trams and busses will get you across the city in minutes and the best part, you could rent a bi-cycle for very cheap prices. Lots of stores in and around the town. So if you are crazy about fashion, a party animal or just a scenic lover, this is the place to be in. I personally love jogging and Antwerp provides beautiful running tracks on the banks of the river. The temperature and climate is very pleasant till September/October, post which it gets really really cold. Overall, an amazing experience and the local people around are very good.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Antwerp?

Being a student in Antwerp is the best thing. Lots of discounts on stuff with your student ID card. Moreover, the international population in Antwerp is awesome. More than 30 nationalities flock the place every year for their undergraduate/graduate/doctoral studies. The student community is extremely close knit and this is a wonderful opportunity to learn and interact with a number of other folks. A wonderful experience and chance to learn and teach as well.

How much does it cost to live in Antwerp?

This would be a tough question as standardizing this would be pretty hard as the life style of every student varies. However, based on my experience, I would say around 650 to 700 Euros/Month is a reasonable amount. Plus/Minus 100 depending on the life style. Many affordable super markets in the area to get some really quality stuff for hardly any money. And with the student discounts in place for entertainment places such as theatres, its better.

Rent: ~400 Euros/Month

Food: ~200 Euros/Month

Entertainment/Misc: ~100 to 150 Euros/Month

This does not include the cost of your books and other insurance stuff.

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

Not at all. Accommodations, especially for students are available in plenty. However, my advise and suggestion would be to make the booking as early as possible as only then you would have a number of choices to choose from and also you could get a place closer to your school. Staying closer to the school is better, especially in the winters, where you would not be so willing to travel long distances in bus/tram/bike in the snow.

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

I, personally am a vegetarian and find it hard at times to eat outside. But Its easier for non vegetarians. But, cooking in the communal kitchen with other students is a different experience and I cherish it. There are a number of sandwiches and burger/pizza places near the school premises. Hence, grabbing a sandwich for lunch or as a snack is never a problem.

What places would you recommend visiting in Antwerp?

Lots of places to visit in Antwerp. Antwerp Zoo, Central Station, Many museums, Cathedral and many more. You could go exploring the city of antwerp on foot or on bike with friends. Would be an awesome experience. Trust me. And apart from that, there are a number of city buses which organizes city tours. There are specific points for the same and you could just go around the city sitting on the roof of the bus.

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

Depends on the student again. I prefer cooking, and hence I try to make my own dishes whenever I can. But its very easy to find a lot of good places to eat outside. Lots and lots of sandwiches and pizzas centres, Many authentic Belgian restaurants are there as well. As a student, I usually frequent Chipz, Subway and Dominos for a quick bite.

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

Night life is fun as well. Lots of pubs and bars to hangout with friends. I haven't been to many yet, however, there are plenty in place.

What advice would you give future students heading to Antwerp?

Its truly a wonderful experience to come and live and study in Antwerp. The exposure you get towards other cultures, other languages and different food varieties is next to none. You will have a good time. Thats for sure.