Experience in Gent, Belgium by Francesca

What is it like to live in Ghent? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

The city is full of students, so loads of activities for them. I recommend Gent for its culture, beauty and lifestyle.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ghent?

It's full of options: from parties, to cultural activities, everyone can find something to do in Gent. There are also many festivals held there and the Student Kickoff is a major blow.

How much does it cost to live in Ghent?

It's quite expensive. Food and the likes tend to have high prices, but there are many discounts for students, especially when it comes to transportation costs.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Ghent? Is there any advice you can give?

It's very easy, actually. Since the city is very studenty, it's not difficult to find an accommodation either through the private market or with the help of the university. I'd suggest going there before the start of the academic year and look for something there - if you don't manage to get an accommodation in the university residences - but there are many advertisement on the internet too.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is amazing! Belgian people seem to love their bread. The university restaurants serve delicious food, from broodjes to meat or vegetable dishes. I personally fell in love with their stoverij and their fries are amazing too.

What places would you recommend visiting in Ghent?

I absolutely recommend the Vooruit, for a relaxing time. It's kind of an old-fashioned, historical place, and you can find any kind of people there. The Overpoort street is kind of the "Erasmus" street, every student hangs there if they want to drink or dance. Facing the Vrijdagmarkt there's the Dulle Griet, a lovely pub, full of history and good beers.

Is it good to eat out in Ghent? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Absolutely! Apart from the frietkot(s), that serve every kind of frituur (fries, meat, hamburger), I'd suggest the pubs in the historical area, that often serve delicious dishes.

Is the nightlife good in Ghent? Where is good to go?

The nightlife is full of options. Students either hang around the city or go to the Overpoort or to the pubs in the historical area.

What advice would you give future students heading to Ghent?

I'd suggest considering the (sometimes) high costs, so come prepared. And bring good shoes, because in winter the streets get awfully slippery thanks to the ice. And enjoy your time there!