Erasmus Experience in Gent, Belgium by Maja

Source

Why did you choose to go to Gent, Belgium?

It is (in my opinion) the most beautiful student city in the world. On one hand, the city centre is a architectural miracle, the people are really friendly and helpful and there are several places to party; not just only Overpoort which is probably the most known 'commercial' party street but also more alternative places.

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

Unfortunately, I just receive scholarship for one semester - 350€. For the next semester I'll have to find a job to finance my staying...

What is the student lifestyle like in Gent?

It is just amazing.

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

Absolutely!

What is the food like?

Waffles are delicious, the french fries (which actually origin from Belgium) are really tasteful, you can chose between a lot of different beers... But otherwise the 'normal' food as OK. You have food from all over the world - pizza, spaghetti, kebab, steaks, Asian food, what ever you want. Also the price can differentiate a lot - from 5€ upwards.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Gent?

Yes. I had to travel here earlier to find something. Most landlords do not like to rent rooms for just one semester.

Source

How much does it cost to live in Gent?

Normally the accommodation cost 300-500€ and the (food, bicycle, train tickets, gym... ) around 400-500€. if you want to party it will cost much more.

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

I had the opportunity to sign in in a language course. It was not really hard.

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

If you come from Slovenia it is the easiest way to take the plane to Brussels and then the train/coach to Gent.

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

It depends what kind of music you like; for jazz blues lovers I recommend Hot club or Dambert, rock/metal/alternative the Kinky Star, also nice places are the Giraf, the App and Charlatan.

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

I prefer to cook by myself, but I found a pretty good and cheap restaurant with Asian food, close to the Overpoortstraat; Orientali Asian Anacks. You also have daily dishes which are 4, 9€.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

You have a lot of museums in Gent, which are really interesting (as a student you have to pay just 1€ for entering). I really like SMAK, the museum of modern art. But you also have several other things, such as theatre or cinemas.

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

Get a yellow bike. Bikes are the best way to travel around Gent. And try to get in touch with the locals - they can show you several hidden parts/clubs/bars which are pretty cool but not so known.

Source