The best destination you could choose

Why did you choose Groningen, the Netherlands?

I definitely wanted to go to The Netherlands. It was a country I was really attracted to. I realised it was the place where I wanted to live my Erasmus experience the minute I searched information about Groningen online.

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

It lasted just 5 months and I got around 700€ per month.

How is the student life in Groningen?

Groningen is a student city which means the student life is impressive wherever you go. In my opinion, Groningen is the perfect place to experience your Erasmus.

Do you recommend Groningen and its University to other students?

Absolutely! Obviously you also have to study, do group projects, etc, but if you organise your time properly, you'll be able to combine your studies with partying and travelling.

What about Dutch food?

Neither good or bad. Stroopwafles are very typical, actually the only Dutch food that I couldn't stop eating, it is like a cookie filled with caramel and it's really tasty. Food-trucks selling fries with a variety of sauces are very common too.

Stroopwafles

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A very interesting and typical Dutch thing are 24/7 machines that sell burgers and hot croquettes. This machines are in a wall: you insert the coin and when the door opens you can get your food. It's the best when you're on your way home after a night out and all the restaurants are closed, you'll see.

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

Not at all! I knew from the very beginning that I wanted to live in student halls. I really recommend it. I booked my student hall online with a company named Housing Office (it has now changed its name to SSH), the only company that offers this type of accommodation in Groningen.

How are living costs in Groningen?

Although it depends of your spending habits, Groningen is not that expensive. I think that you can live pretty well with 700-800€ per month, being able to afford some whims and trips but you could definitely survive with a smaller budget if necessary.

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

Most Dutch people speak perfect English, so not knowing Dutch is not a problem.

However, it is important to have a good level of English when coming to The Netherlands if you don't want to struggle at University and want to socialise with students from other nationalities.

What is the cheapest way to get to Groningen from your home town?

Flying with Ryanair to Eindhoven and then taking a 3 hour train to Groningen (if you want to get a ticket for just 7€ to any destination within the Netherlands, look for the Facebook group to buy train tickets from the train company NS).

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

Coyote's, Kokomo, Ocean 41, Chupitos, Snow Valley, etc. The truth is that every club is great and you can go out a couple of days a week. Even on Mondays, there is a party.

What do you recommend to visit in Groningen?

The Martini tower, the colourful houses, the lakes around the city. It's a really charming city!

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Any advice for future students at Groningen?

Live every minute like it is your last and do as much stuff as you can. You'll have plenty of time to rest and live a normal life when you are back in your hometown.