Lucie's Erasmus Experience in Eindhoven, the Netherlands

Why did you choose to go to Eindhoven, in the Netherlands?

I didn't specifically choose this city, rather I went to Eindhoven as I found a place there to do my placement. I wanted to go to an English-speaking country (the Dutch speak English very well), as well as experience the culture of Northern European countries as I find it rather interesting.

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How long was your stay in Eindhoven? How much aid did you receive?

I was in Eindhoven for two and a half months, from May to July. I received an Erasmus grant of 950 euros.

What is the student atmosphere like in Eindhoven?

Eindhoven is definitely a young and student friendly city: people often go out for a drink after work, or spend their weekends down Strattum (a street full of bars).

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

Despite what you might think, Amsterdam isn't the only interesting city to visit in the Netherlands, I definitely recommend Eindhoven too! It's a relatively small city, so it's more friendly and energetic. Also, thanks to Philips, the city is home to plenty of new technology.

What is the food like there?

I didn't especially love the local food: lots of raw or fried fish. But in the supermarkets you can more or less find the same things as in France.

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Was it difficult finding somewhere to live in Eindhoven?

I found it very hard to find somewhere to live, as all the adverts were in Dutch (which is difficult to translate, even with Google Translate). However, there are plenty of offers available. A decent room will cost at least 400 euros a month.

What is the cost of living in Eindhoven?

The cost of living is similar to life in France, with some differences in things like products or services. Bus tickets are extremely expensive (3. 50 euros for a single). Upon moving there, it's worth buying a second hand bike (you can find one easily for 30-40 euros), as the city centre is only accesible by pedestrians and cyclists.

Is it easy to learn the language? Did you go to any language courses?

Dutch is impossible to learn in such a short time. I think you really need to stay there for a few years to truly learn the language, as I only spoke in English.

Whats the cheapest way to get to Eindhoven from your home town?

Living in Toulouse, I took a flight with Ryanair from Carcasonne: the ticket was obviously cheaper (about 70 euros) than another companies such as Air France for example and the flight was direct too.

What places would you recommend a visit in Eindhoven?

There's a street dedicated entirely to bars and pubs in Eindhoven: Strattum. It must have around 40 odd bars, and there's something for everyone! I recommend Kitsch for those don't like chart music, like me. The Phillips bar is an absolute must for a drink too!

And places to eat in Eindhoven? Where are you favourite places?

There's plenty of choice in Eindhoven. I suggest the small Bagels restaurant, which is next to the domed shopping centre. For 1. 50 euros you can have a hot-dog at Hema and the restaurant on the top floor of V&D isn't too bad either.

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Which cultural places would you recommend?

I suggest going to the Van Abbe Museum (next the Strattum), it's a contemporary art museum, and also, there are plenty of artistic galleries such as Atelierdorp.

Any advice for future students going to Eindhoven?

Don't think you can't have fun if the weather is rubbish (it rains a lot, more or less everyday), be brave and talk to the locals there, they're very friendly and open and happy to talk to strangers (especially the French). If I had to do it again, I wouldn't hesitate for a second!

Have a good time!