Erasmus Experience in Ghent, Belgium

Why did you decide to go to Ghent, Belgium?

It was the best destination from those that I could choose, for the following reasons:

The university's reputation, the population's good knowledge of English and being in the centre of Europe which gave me the possibility to travel often and cheaply.

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How long does the grant last for? How much money do you receive?

It depends on the various institutions, you should contact your own international office.

The grant anyway goes from a minimum of 3 months to the maximum 12 months. As for the money, it is 238 Euros per month from the EU in addition to some help from your department.

Keep in mind that often the money arrives when you return from the exchange, in which case you should/could ask for some help from your relatives or a student loan (please see "let's give them credit").

What's the student environment like in Ghent?

Awesome! Spectacular! It's a small city based around the university, there's a department in every corner, student housing, parties everywhere...

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

Certainly... I had the possibility to live briefly in large cities such as Madrid and Warsaw thanks to Erasmus, and I have spoken with those who have lived there for 10 months. I can assure you that a small city has many more advantages.

How was the local food?

No comment... the local dish is chips and mussels... that says it all!

Learn to cook, otherwise suffer and starve :-)

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How did you find accommodation?

I asked the accommodation service for a place in the student residence and it was given to me.

How expensive is the accommodation? And the cost of living in general?

The accommodation cost, if I'm not mistaken, was around 450 Euros a month with bills included, for a studio apartment. As for the general cost, it obviously depends on your shopping habits: fresh fruit, vegetables and meat generally cost a lot. In clubs (they are mostly like pubs rather than clubs), entrance is free and a small beer costs 1. 70 Euro.

If you live in the centre, by bike is more than sufficient to move around so don't bother with public transport cards.

What about the lingo? Did you take any language courses at the university?

I took one English course and a Dutch one but the latter is impossible...

Which is the cheapest way to get to Ghent from your city?

With Ryanair to Brussels Charleroi and from there, by train to Ghent with a change at Brussels Central Station. Otherwise, you can take the bus outside the airport (it costs 13 Euros) which takes you to Brussels Midi and from there you can take the train to Ghent (there are 2 every hour).

Which places would you recommend for going out at night?

Overpoot Straat is the main street for students, where you will only find pubs and young people.

Warning: on Thursdays it is closed to vehicles and transport and it transforms into something really incredible...

For you Erasmus students I would recommend using the ESN as your reference, as they will always advise you on everything.

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And eating spots at Ghent? Can you mention some of your favourite places?

I'd recommend Amadeus, where you can eat ribs and unlimited potatoes and salad for 13 Euros.

And the cultural hotspots?

All the old centre, and then travel! Go to all of Belgium's cities, Bruges most importantly and all over Europe with Ryanair.

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Do you have any advice for future Erasmus student in Ghent?

Enjoy it and carpe diem! Because upon your return you will plummet into a deep depression...