Experience in Gent, Belgium by Gerardo

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

The city is charming, it's a mixture of old buildings and brandnew architecture. I arrived in summer so everything was shiny and sunny, as the winter approaches it was getting colder and it rains almost every day. You better keep an umbrella AND a rain coat. Traveling by bike is the easiest, cheapest and as-fast-as-you can way of moving from one place to another. There are a lot of things to see in Ghent, cathedrals, houses, castles...

What is the student lifestyle like in Ghent?

It is not how I thought, as PhD student you are the only responsible for your studies. There is a programm to follow but it depends only on you. Classes have not started so I still don't have idea about them.

How much does it cost to live in Ghent?

Cheaper than UK, Holland and others, but more expensive than Spain.

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

Not so difficult, there are offers for everybudget. Advice: keep in mind your contracts and the deadline. Talk to the houselord if you want to renew it with at least one month before the deadline.

Find a place close to work or lab or school where you are spending most of the time, so you don't have to move long distances, fear the rain and the cold!

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

Food is good, try the fries! and the soups!
Hamburgers are different but still tasty. There are not natural juices in most of the restaurants.

What places would you recommend visiting in Ghent?

Cathedral, Castles and the Flea markets.

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

It is good. I don't use to but the few times I had I was satisfied. There are many nationalities around and different places to eat. One day you can have food form Nepal, or Japan, or Africa, it's up to you.

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

Don't have idea... but it gets noisy.

What advice would you give future students heading to Ghent?

This is a nice place, just make sure your accommodation is granted and bring rain/cold accesories.