Erasmus Experience in Leuven, Belgium, by Solene

Why did you choose to go to Leuven, Belgium?

Belgium is the country of beer and party, and Leuven is a nice little city, with a historical center and plenty of activities.

What is the student lifestyle like in Leuven?

Most classes are not mendatory, so students who like to party often miss the morning ones. There are parties every day, although on weekends the local students go back home, so the city becomes quiet. It is a great time to take the train and visit other cities, and also take trips to close cities like Amsterdam and Paris.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Leuven to other students?

Obviously, it is one of the nicest cities I have visited, and the people are amazing.

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What is the food like?

There are lots of belgian specialties available, but if one is not a fan of cheese and beer, there are plenty of food from different cultures (chinese, indian, japanese... ) and obviously really good pizza and kebab, that are quite cheap.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Leuven?

No, it was very easy to find accomodation, there are lots of free rooms all over the city, so the choice is yours!

How much does it cost to live in Leuven?

Including the rent, it can vary from 500 to 700 euros per month... But it is easy to cut these costs, like partying one less time per week for example.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Written Dutch is a mix of English and German, so it is quite easy to understand what is written, but when it is spoken, it is not easy to understand. However everyone in Leuven speaks basic english at least, if not perfect. There is never any language troubles in shops or with the univeristy activities. There are courses in the university, that are really cheap, and learning the language if you are motivated can take you less that 9 months.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Leuven from your city?

By train: the Belgian railway system is very well developped and you can reach any cities without trouble.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Leuven?

Each faculty has their own bar (Fakbar), with cheap drinks and great fun.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Leuven?

Nice restaurants are quite expensive, so I prefer the fast food, or the university cafeteria.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Lots of churches, and old buildings in the very center. The main library is one of the prettiest buildings in Leuven, on the Ladeuzeplein.

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Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Leuven in the future?

What are you waiting for? Leuven is the place to be!