Experience in Köln, Germany by Cailin
What is it like to live in Cologne? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?
I highly recommend Köln for students and younger people. The city is vibrant, always buzzing and very colourful in its culture and identity. It is an absolute pleasure living in this wonderful city.
What is the student lifestyle like in Cologne?
The University is located near to city centre, where students can find plenty of clubs, bars and restaurants, most of which will give you a student discount if you have a university card.
How much does it cost to live in Cologne?
Living in Köln can be quite costly, especially when finding a good accomodation. It is very competitive. Other than that, you can get by with student discounts nearly everywhere you go, and as long as you don't go out every night (alcohol and good food can be expensive) and decide to stay in and cook, you should be fine. Public transport can also be relatively expensive, but there are cheaper student options that you can buy.
Is it difficult to find accommodation in Cologne? Is there any advice you can give?
Just like in any other big city, accomodation is hard to find as well as expensive. My tip: do your research! And also, don't be afraid to live somewhere outside of the city centre. There is transport almost everywhere that can get you into the city in no time.
What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?
Food is to die for.
What places would you recommend visiting in Cologne?
Definitely the Dom, the Hohenzollernbrücke, the Alte Markt, Heumarkt, Neumarkt, Schildergasse Street, Aachener Weiher, MediaPark, Chocolate Museum, Chlodwigplatz, Rheinufer... countless.
Is it good to eat out in Cologne? Can you tell us your favourite spots?
Food is to die for. Köln has such a variety of restaurants, and especially for those who love a taste of the world you will notice that Köln boasts such a diverse range of cuisine. Spanish, Greek, Indian, Indonesian, Thai, Vietnamese, South African, Italian, Portuguese, American... whatever! My personal favourite dishes come from the Thai restaurants (such as Kitti Chai), as well as the famous "Döner" (literally "rotating kebab", it is sliced lamb, beef, or chicken, slowly roasted on a vertical rotating spit) that you can find nearly everywhere in Köln.
Is the nightlife good in Cologne? Where is good to go?
Nightlife is amazing. Countless pubs (American, Irish, German) and bars and clubs. The clubs are mostly located in around Rudolfplatz and Friesenplatz.
What advice would you give future students heading to Cologne?
Keep an open mind, learn to appreciate what you have in front of you and you will soon fall hopelessly in love with Köln!
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