Erasmus Experience in Brussels, Belgium by Maude

Why did you choose to go to Brussels, Belgium?

To discover a new part of the French-speaking countries, for the proximity of other European countries and for the beer culture.

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How long is your stay for? How much aid do you receive?

6 months from January to July. I receive a $4, 000 mobility grant and I saved up enough to be able to fund my trip, over the duration of last year.

How is student life in Brussels?

It's very active at night in the Ixelles University quarter. Contrarily, the activism and partying student environments aren't united and it's sometimes difficult to reconcile them both. For a short period of the exchange, my social circle mostly constituted of the Erasmus groups and it's slightly difficult to integrate into local Belgian student groups.

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

Certainly! It is for those who want to live in a diversified place without being it too unsettling. On first sight, it's not a charming city but it will come to be as you let it domesticate you.

How is the country's food?

Perfect for testing out every corner of your taste buds. There are many incongruous tastes and fatty substances but it's always a delight. Unfortunately, the price of groceries is more expensive that what I was expecting, especially for cheese which are definitely cheaper and more diverse in France. On the other hand, in terms of beer, there will never be anything to object to as far as choice is concerned!

Beer

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Did you have difficulty finding accommodation in Brussels?

Absolutely. I arrived a month in advance, having contacted offers on official accommodation websites and Facebook groups in advance and I had to change accommodations 3 times. You have to be really careful to make sure the accommodation proposed offers domiciliation for issues relating to visa. Equally, during the period I began my exchange (the winter semester), the student halls were all taken and the university didn't suggest any other alternatives. You have to persevere and remain attentive to the adverts.

How are living costs in Brussels?

Setting rent aside (which in some cases can reach into the €500s), the rest remains relatively affordable. There are an abundant amount of places where going out costs just €5 and the local markets offer good products for cheap prices. Transport is done well with the annual pass for €50 or the bike for €11 a year, courtesy of the ULB and its understanding; advantageous for students.

How is the learning of the language? Did you go to any language courses organised by the university?

French is my mother tongue but I would really like to learn Flemish in my spare time. If I'd have student in Brussels for a year, I definitely would have taken lessons.

What is the most economical way of getting to Brussels from your city?

The plane is the only possible way from Canada.

Which places would you recommend to party in Brussels?

At the Ixelles cemetery, there are an array of bars with atmospheres to please all tastes. The Saint-Gilles quarter for jazz clubs and pubs, the city centre for Délirium or Boone Fooi and of course, Botanique for its concerts.

And to eat in Brussels? What are your favourite places?

The chip shacks aren't giving up their place. The Saint-Gilles parvis also comes to life every Monday evening with a local market and stalls. Otherwise, you have to watch out for all-you-can-eat mussels in restaurants that are certainly touristic but affordable.

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And what cultural visits do you advise?

All the museums, the libraries, the concert venues, the wanders around the little alleys and street art are to do. The flea markets and the marketplace. The Place du Jeu de Balle also brings the little patched up Brussels to light.

Flee market

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Any advice to give to future students in Brussels?

Don't stay in your room and most of all, don't be scared to talk to people you don't know!