Erasmus experience in Brussels, Belgium

Why did you decide to go to Brussels, Belgium?

In my second year of A levels I had the opportunity to visit Brussels for 4 days. I was very impressed by this city and I really wanted to go back. When I had to decide on an Erasmus city, my first two options were Brussels so I could go back and enjoy it well.

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How long was your scholarship? How much grant money did you receive?

In my case, the scholarship was 9 months. In Andalucia we receive €600 a month, which is deposited in our accounts in three stages.

How was student life in Brussels?

The academic level in Brussels is quite high thus my studies were very demanding. On the other hand, this is something that is very positive given that one obtains a higher standard in what they want to do, which was languages in my case.

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

Yes, 100%. At the beginning, because it was winter, cold and snowing, I was a bit fed up of the city, but it didn't stop me from enjoying my time there. Brussels also has so many advantages.

What’s the food like in Belgium?

You can find all kinds of food in the supermarkets, even food from other countries. In Brussels, the most typical food was the waffles, the "frites" and "moules avec frites" (mussels with potatoes). There are all kinds of restaurants, fast food, Italian, Chinese, Japanese... hunger doesn't exist here, that is for sure.

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How did you find accomodation?

I was lucky. Another girl from my university was doing her Erasmus in Brussels when I got in contact with her. It was her who advised me to stay with her "kot" and this is what I did, as it was becoming such a hassle.

How much did your accomodation cost? And what were other general expenses?

Considering the quality of kots, studios and flats in Brussels, it was quite expensive. The minimum for something that was even half decent was €350. In general, Brussels is expensive. In the supermarkets, depending on which one you go to, it will be more or less expensive. Although it seems trivial, I realised how expensive it was when a friend of mine got a job working at Zara, and she told us that they made her remove the Spanish prices from the clothing, which where €20-€30 cheaper.

How was the language? Did you attend any courses at the university?

The language was very good. French is the dominant language in Brussels, and you can learn a lot through socialising. In my case, my writing and listening skills were what improved the most, which made me very happy. Flemish is a secondary language in Brussels, but it is more predominant in Bruges and Ghent, so it's possible to learn some of it. On the metro one always hears the typical "Aansluiting metro", which stays with you no matter what.

What’s the cheapest way to get to Brussels from your city?

By plane, Ryanair is supposedly the cheapest, but often it's a good idea to check other airlines. Travelling with luggage on Ryanair flights costs extra, so do the maths and compare to other flights that go to Charleroi, from where you need to catch a bus to Brussels which costs €13.

Where are the best places to go out in Brussels?

There are so many... Delirium, Corbeau, Celtica, Fuse, Coaster, Salsa bar... something for all tastes.

And eating in Brussels? What are your favourite places?

Truthfully I mostly ate at home. If I was travelling I'd end up eating fast food at Rollo Quick, McDonald's, Burger King, Subway... and in Brussels I went to various Chinese and Italian restaurants... but I can't remember the names.

And for a cultural visit?

I always did the same tour on my visits. You must see the European neighbourhood, going down towards the centre passing by the Royal Palace and Brussels Park. Go to the Cathedral, the Grand Place and the Bourse. See the Manneken Pis and the Jeanneke Pis.

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And always if you can, visit the surrounding cities.

Any advice for future students going to Brussels?

Enjoy it. Enjoy each and every single moment because, unfortunately, it goes by so fast.