Experience in Gent, Belgium by Jasmien

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

Gent is a wonderful city with lots of things to do, to see, to discover and to experience. During the day, lots of students are going to their classes and you often see many tourists with their maps. During the night, students come out and celebrate the night life.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Gent?

Their are lots of facilities for students. Libraries, places to study, things to do,... Some places you get student discounts. The place to party is mainly the Overpoortstraat. But, at Sint Jakobs, you find nice little cozy bars as well.

How much does it cost to live in Gent?

If you want to live in the city center, it will cost you around 400-500 euro. This seems a lot, but it is worth it. If you don't mind riding by bicycle or taking public transport, you can get places around 300 as well. Food and drinks and nightlife, that's like all the places in Europe. It depends on how much you want to spend.

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

No, there are a lot of websites where you can find your accommodation. But it might be handy if you know someone who can recommend you to the landlords. I might suggest you to go and search at the beginning of June if you'll be studying in the first semester.

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

Food is great. French fries, a nice steak, crème brulée,... Lots of typical french food dishes. Don't forget the lovely chocolate, the waffles, the beer, and the cuberdons.

My favourite dish: Asparagus à la flamande.

What places would you recommend visiting in Gent?

Graslei, Korenmarkt, Stam, Vooruit...

Is it good to eat out in Gent? Can you tell us your favorite spots?

Godot, Belgaqueen, Fou d'O, Patijntje, Café Labath, Julie's House, Amadeus...

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

Overpoortstraat, Charlatan, Bar des Amis.

What advice would you give future students heading to Gent?

Be ready to be amazed and fall in love.

But be prepared because the weather can change quickly.

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