Experience in Groningen, The Netherlands by Pedro

Why did you choose Groningen, The Netherlands?

Because I wanted to go to an uncommon Erasmus destination.

How long was your scholarship? How much money you were given?

I had an scholarship during one semester in 2010 and I was given 900 euros per month. But you have to take into consideration that it was possible thanks to my home-university (Málaga, Spain) and that they don't give that much money anymore because of the crisis.

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How is the student life in Groningen?

It is great! Groningen is a typical student-city with the widest offer of party and leisure that you can imagine. Getting bored is definitely not a possibility!

Do you recommend Groningen and its University to other students?

If you are a party animal you will love its student-life and night-life. If social interaction is not made for you, then you are in the wrong place.

What about Dutch food?

Horrible. Despite having some delicacies, like haring (which I love) or Dutch cheese, gastronomy is their weakest point.

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Groningen? Can you give some advice?

It was pretty easy, I found a room in halls of residence online before leaving Spain.

How much does life in Groningen cost?

Groningen is quite cheap if you compare it to other Dutch cities, like Amsterdam for example. There are some very affordable supermarkets like Lidl and plus. However, their food doesn't have much quality. But during Erasmus you just need to survive and save as much money as you can so you can party as much as you want.

What about Dutch language? Did you take any lessons at University?

Dutch is one of those very-difficult-and-almost-impossible languages that when you hear it it makes you cringe and, since everyone there speaks perfect English, I had no problem with making myself understood. I didn't take any Dutch course at University despite I had the possibility.

which is the easiest way to get to Groningen from your home-town?

In 2010 the easiest way from Málaga, Spain, was flying with Ryanair to Maastrich or Eindhoven. It was also possible to fly with vueling from Málaga to Ámsterdam.

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Which clubs do you recommend for a night out in Groningen?

Just go to the city centre, in a couple of days you will know it like your home.

Can you recommend your favourite restaurants in Groningen?

The "three fifty" Turkish place, where you could actually buy pizza for 3, 5€. It's the best place to stop in your way home after a night out.

What do you recommend to visit in Groningen?

Not that much. I don't remember visiting any museum or important architectural figure. You can perfectly visit all the tourist attractions in just one day.

Any advice for future students at Groningen?

Take prophylactic measures with you. Buy your bike at the police warehouse but don't get emotionally attached to it because it is very possible that it will be stolen in a couple of days. You can go biking everywhere in Groningen, in there bikes go first, pedestrians go second. Be prepared for cold, cloudy days and rain every five minutes. ALWAYS choose a student-house as your accommodation. Van Hautenlaan, Winscho are great choices and Korno is only 5 min. away from Zernike campus.