Maria's Erasmus Experience in Brussels, Belgium

Why did you choose to go to Brussels, Belgium?

For job opportunities related to my degree in Law and Political Science, and because it is in the centre of Europe, making it a great location to travel from.

Source

What’s student life like in Brussels?

I am staying in student accommodation and I've been very lucky with my flatmates. I have three months of the year left and we are already like a family. The city is also full of students, especially Spaniards (I speak more Spanish here than at home).

Would you recommend the city and university to other students?

Yes, 100%. You learn English and French, the people are very open, there is a lot of cultural diversity and the classes at the university are quite easy.

What's the food like in Belgium?

The food is very good, but it is very expensive. You probably won’t eat out much and in terms of supermarkets, look for Colryut or Okey, Carrefour is a bit more expensive.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Brussels?

At first, I wanted to stay in a Kot (a type of student housing that is rented privately during the academic year in Belgium), or a flat for all that language thing and to meet different people. But in the end, I decided on student accommodation next to the university, called “Patrimonia Village” (they call it the Spanish students’ accommodation), and it's quite cheap in comparison.

How much does it cost to live in Brussels?

A lot. I am more accustomed to it now, but when I arrived I freaked out! I went to the supermarket and returned with Bimbo bread and cheese and thought that that would be my diet for the whole Erasmus year. But the truth is, you get used to it and you learn to buy cheaper things (p. s. there’s a fruit and veg market on Sundays).

How’s the language? Did you go on a course at the university?

I was quite lost at the beginning. I understand everything now but talking is difficult, but I can hold my own. Giving classes in French helps to learn.

What's the cheapest way of getting to Brussels from your hometown?

Flying, but don’t even think about getting a taxi from the airport (it cost me €40). There is a bus that takes you to the centre from either Zaventem or Charleroi airport and it takes about 45 minutes.