Experience in Brooklyn, United States by Shirley

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

Yes, I do recommend Brooklyn! It depends on the neighborhood, but if you live in either Bushwick or Williamsburg, for instance, you can get a good sense of the artsy part of town, and partake in the party scene, if you are interested. It's very hip, casual, but expensive!, modern, diverse and a bit on edge.

What is the student lifestyle like in Brooklyn?

I actually dont have personal experience with that, but from what I hear, it's quite good! Again, you have quite a bit of a party scene in Brooklyn, due to the influx of young artists and hipsters, and several colleges located directly in Brooklyn and in close proximity to major events and Manhattan as well. The atmosphere is relaxed and supportive.

How much does it cost to live in Brooklyn?

Brooklyn has gentrified over the years and therefore has gotten expensive. It used to be an afforable place to live, but that is not necessarily the case anymore. Rents for a nice, big room range from $700-1200, but if you want a one-bedroom or studio apartment, you can pay up to $2500 a month. My own rent used to be $1500 for a lovely, modern one-bedroom apartment, but is now, 6 years later, $2300!Which is also one of the reasons I moved out! Food, if you go out to eat anyway, is also expensive, but grocery stores offer somewhat decent prices, so cooking your own meals will turn out to be much cheaper, for sure.

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

It's not really difficult to find a place, but to secure, that's the hard part. Even if you're just renting a room, people want to see that you can pay, and most places want proof of income, last and first months security, plus a deposit. My advice is to join the facebook group Gypsy Housing NYC, where on a daily basis rooms and apartments are being listed and where you'll often get by with just one of the above mentioned requirements. It's a great way for finding a place to live, but you have to be quick, because even there, competition is always there!

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

The food in Brooklyn can be amazing! There's a Mexican restaurant called Mesa Azteca, which has excellent enchiladas and Guacemole, but there are also several Southern food joints, like Jimmy's diner, which are also fantastic. You can find every cuisine in Brooklyn and have tons of options of take-out, eating out, or delivery. "Roberta's" is the must-go pizza joint, and you also have "Cousin John's"; an affordable bakery/cafe in Park Slope that makes the best French Toast in the world!

What places would you recommend visiting in Brooklyn?

1)The Botanical Gardens, especially during spring time, because of the Cherry Orchards.
2) Barclay's Center for a concert, show, sport event etc.
3) Park Slope, Grand Army Plaza, shopping and dining out in this area
4) Williamsburg- East River State Park, Smorgasburg and Brooklyn Bowling alley, all in walking distance from one another.

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

Yes, please see above! I already listed some of my favorite places there. Another spot, for romantic special events, is The River Cafe. A must for an anniversary or something of that sort. Also: Criff Dogs, where they make outstanding and unique hot dogs!

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

I don't have personal experience with it, but I hear its excellent! That's all I know, sorry!

What advice would you give future students heading to Brooklyn?

Be calm, be prepared for a great time in your life, enjoy, have fun, but also be on your guard (Brooklyn is great, but you still have to be careful, especially at night).