Erasmus Experience in Gent, Belgium, by Jonna

Why did you choose to go to Ghent, Belgium?

It happened accidentally, it wasn't my first choise but I have definitely never regretted it. One of the best times of my life.

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

It lasts 4 and a half months. I got around 1300 euros of Erasmus money when I came to Gent and each month around 450 euros.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ghent?

If you like to party, there is a party almost everyday in Gent. Lot of exchange students and ESN is always organizing different events from foreign students. It is guaranteed that you will not be alone.

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

I was studying in Artevelde Hogeschool and I could recommend it even though it wasn't totally my favorite part of my Erasmus time.

What is the food like?

I didn't like that much of Belgian food but if you love waffles, beer and french fries, it will be your heaven. Food is pretty expensive in Gent. They love also sandwiches in Belgian style.

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Ghent?

No.

How much does it cost to live in Ghent?

I paid little over 400 euros if I remember right. I had my one room but shared kitchen, living room, toilet, shower.

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

I used only English in Gent and it was enough. Some of the students were taking also language courses so those are also available.

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

To buy 10 times trip ticket! It was so great... Get information for example from ESN Gent. It is easy to go around with train if you wanna get out of the city but inside Gent, it is enough to just walk around or you can rent a bike with a cheap price. Bikes are really popular in Gent.

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

Overpoort! And Culture Club if you want to go to a bigger club.

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

There was some really nice pizzeria on a way to a centre from train station. It is before the shopping street and across the Ibiz hotel. I don't like ribs but all who love, where recommending place called Amadeus.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Just walk around, the city is beautiful. Building around Graslei are lovely and it is worth of going inside the churches also. There were also really nice Light Festivals of Gent when I was there and if possible, go to Gentse Feesten at Summer time! And I will never forget my trip to ILoveTechno -festivals... Awesome!

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Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Ghent in the future?

Just relax, have fun but still do your studies. It is more relaxing if you don't have to stress about the school. Travel around the Belgium and travel out of the country it is cheap and easy (... at least for Finns). Join ESN Gent and you will get the best parties and meet the people of your lifetime through them.

Be active and make most of you exchange time... If it would be possible, I would do my Erasmus experience all over again. I love Gent!

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