Erasmus Experience in Gent, Belgium by Anna Maria

Why did you choose to go to Ghent, Belgium?

I choose it because I study political sciences and I think that the country, which is the capital of European Union, is perfect for that. And it was true, because professors shows us many aspects of European parliament in practice.

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How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I have got 400 euros per month. It is not a lot, because to rent a room in student house is 391 euros per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ghent?

During the day - study hard

At night - party hard.

There are many places for party and entertainment.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Ghent to other students?

Yes, I would recommend it. But you have to be careful about choosing lectures, because many of them are in dutch so you have to learn by yourself from books in english with no teacher help, and no lessons! Also be careful with administratives - they really respect the law. So if you sign an agreement for a student house, there is no way to go back earlier - you still have to pay as long as you have signed.

What is the food like?

Food is cool. Moulles, best chips and the best beers in the world. It is not cheap if you eat in the city. But student bars are quite cheap and good.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Ghent?

It is almost impossible. I advice you to find an accomodation as soon as possible or even travel there before study period to meet with room owners. There are many rooms for students because it is a student city. So you will find something for sure, but it is not easy because not everyone wants to speak with people who are not from Belgium, or they will try to cheat you. Be careful, because the quality of rooms is usually not perfect.

How much does it cost to live in Ghent?

I spend 600 euros per month with accomodation, but it is not a lot. Normally you can spend much more easily.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

There are available, but you have to pay for them about 50 euros. For me Dutch is impossible to learn.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Ghent from your city?

From Poznań the best way to travel is by bus. Take some Eurolines buses or different, but it is cheaper if you travel with big luggage. It travel by night so you are not so tired. By plane is supposed to be faster, but you have to travel from brussel Charleroi where the airport is to Gent which cost about 8 euro and there is many mess with that. You need at least 2 changes by trains and busses.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Ghent?

Overpoortstraat or Culture Club in the suburbs.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Ghent?

Student bars: Cafe Brugge and Kantienberg.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Nice cinemas, many vernissages and nice museums.