Erasmus Experience in Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium by Sérgio

Why did you choose to go to Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium?

My Master Thesis supervisor had studied in Louvain-la-Neuve so he recommended me to go there as he knew most of the Professors that could help me.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

It lasts 6 months, I've received about 1200€ for the whole period.

What is the student lifestyle like in Louvain-la-Neuve?

Lifestyle is very relaxed, the lack of hygiene in the bars and clubs can be frightening at first but then you will embrace it all and you will either love it or hate it and never go out. What I really liked was that the whole town was part of the University so every day there is an event or party, BUT it will always end early due to the university rules (people had to work/study the next day).

Would you recommend the city and the University of Louvain-la-Neuve to other students?

Yes, I would.

What is the food like?

Food was OK if you like kebabs, french fries, hamburgers and sandwiches. These are very cheap in the street.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Louvain-la-Neuve?

Accomodation was provided by the University at a very low price. I didn't have to choose anything but I did have to apply for it with some time in advance.

How much does it cost to live in Louvain-la-Neuve?

I would say it costed less than 500€ per month INCLUDING accomodation and bills. I travelled a lot to all surrounding towns and countries.

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

They speak french and little english, but you can do a french course on your level and that helps to get to know new people as well.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Louvain-la-Neuve from your city?

I took the plane from Lisbon to Bruxels, then the train to Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Louvain-la-Neuve?

The "Casa" Cercle or any other Cercle.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Louvain-la-Neuve?

I can't recommend restaurants but I'd recommend the hamburguer stand in the northern parking lot where you can eat a giant burguer.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The town is very small, so you can easily walk around everywhere. The lake is cool to relax and have a BBQ. With the train lines you can visit ALL of Belgium for almost nothing (buy the 10 trip card for 50€).

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Louvain-la-Neuve in the future?

Book your accomodation in advance, go to every party you can, make friends wherever you go and you will have the best time of your life.

Source