Experience in Brussels, Belgium by Kris

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

Brussels is a stinky big city, if that doesn't put you off then there is a lot to see and do. There is almost always something happening at or around "Beurs" Lot's of museums if you're into that. It's busy but not Amsterdam busy, you can always get around even in the center.

What is the student lifestyle like in Brussels?

There is alot of students in Brussels even though you would not say it. Most study at universities with their own dorm so you won't see much of them. on a sunny day at a park they'll suddenly appear in hordes!

How much does it cost to live in Brussels?

It's very expensive, food is expensive, rent is expensive, it's just not a cheap place to live in general. BUT ofcourse if you know where to shop you can get all your weekly groceries for around 25€ so that's not too bad!

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

It was pretty easy, there are free websites which offer you rooms in student homes.

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

I don't really like the food, but then again i can't think of any typical Brussels food (except chocolate, which is way to expensive, skip) One tip i can give is to visit your local foreign supermarket. I often visit a big chinese supermarket and used to come at a marrocan (i think) minimart, which had amazing olives for a very cheap price.

What places would you recommend visiting in Brussels?

The parks on a sunny day, the natural history museum (it has loads of dinosaurs!!) roof top terraces and Brussel Brost (it's a festival that happens once a year) definitely visit "Manneken Pis" and then realise it's the most anticlimatic thing ever (like really) But sometimes they put fun costumes on him so there's that.

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

Most restaurants are too expensive for my taste. I can recommend Bun's Burgers (near gare du midi) very tasty burgers, but also expensive. Decent vegan options in Brussels, although you might have to look for them, don't expect every place to serve vegan. Apparently you can eat in the top atom of the atomium, that should be pretty cool.

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

Nightlife is not super, there is not much places to actually dance, sadly. There are loads of small bars though, where you can kickback and have a drink. But don't expect crazy nighlife in Brussels. It is worth checking out the program of the AB and Vorst Nationaal, lot's of big artists come there.

What advice would you give future students heading to Brussels?

Learn french