Erasmus Experience in Mechelen, Belgium by Pablo

Why did you choose to go to Mechelen, Belgium?

At first, I didn't choose this city, but now i have a good expecience about this zone. It is small, friendly and really nice.

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

I was there 6 month aprox. and the money I received was around 1800 euros and I spent approximately 5000 Euros.This is not relative because my day to day was spectacular. The Erasmus happens once in life, and in my opinion, you should squeeze the maximum.

What is the student lifestyle like in Mechelen?

Off course you must study because the ETC's are in other lenguaje, althought you have time for everything. In my opinión you must travel, Stay in all the parties and the most important thing: Do things you've never done in your normal life. Erasmus is a cloud that lasts for a period of time.

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

Off course. the help in the University is very good. I think that this is normal, because you are new in other Country/City... YOU NEED HELP AT THE FIRST.

What is the food like?

The food in the supermarket it's normal, althought more expensive tan in spain. The best places for take meal was in the Kebab places( for me, because was only six month))

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Mechelen?

NO. for me was good because there was a new recidence: STIP. But my friends does´'t have probleme too, to find a Flat.

How much does it cost to live in Mechelen?

It depends off you. for me, in this life, all is cheap and expensive...

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

The courses was in English but there are some that was in DUTCH. It wasn't problrem for me.

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

By plane. with Ryanair.

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

Always Panique D'o. also you have 2 importants Cities very near: Antwerp and Brussels. You can find EVERYTHING there.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The tower of Mechelen is very very BEAUTIFULL.

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

ENJOY EVERYDAY. DON'T THINK ABOUT THE REAL WORLD. YOU STAY IN A SMALL CLOUD. YOU MUST MEET PEOPLE WORLDWIDE. DO FRIENDS FOR ALL THE LIFE. AND REMEMBER..... ERASMUS NEVER DIE.