Erasmus in Nijmegen, the Netherlands

What is it like to live in Nijmegen? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Nijmegen is a small city, which, depending on your tastes, you may or may not like. Personally, I found it really welcoming for the year. I also liked it because how very different it was from Spain, or at least from my home city (Malaga), with regards to its architecture, landscapes, nature... The air is pure there and you'll always be able find a beautiful spot to clear your mind.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Nijmegen?

There are a lot of international students here, as well as lots of Dutch students, so, despite it being a small city (we affectionately call it our little Dutch town), the university there is pretty big and is quite prestigious.

How much does it cost to live in Nijmegen?

It's more expensive here than in my home city, but that's not surprising. Obviously the lifestyle is different here. So you can't go for a beer with friends, because even a small glass costs €2. 50, but you'll be able to adapt to it, without bankrupting yourself.

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Was it difficult to find accommodation in Nijmegen? Can you give any advice?

No, because I found my place through the university, they will make it easy to get a place in a residence and it's super helpful. They use a company called the SSHN. I'd advise you not to bother looking for a flat, everyone here lives in the residences and it's the best way to socialise and to get to know people, besides all of the parties are held in the residences and not in flats.

What is the food like there? What are some of your favourite dishes?

It's not somewhere that's very well known for its great food, but I really liked the pannekoeken, they're delicious! And you have to try the desserts there, once you've eaten stroopwaffles, you won't be able to stop eating them.

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Where would you recommend visiting in Nijmegen?

Since it's a small city, there isn't much to see. Of course go and see the centre and all of the parks and green spaces you find in the city are great. But above all, don't miss out on travelling in the Netherlands, it's inexpensive with something class a group ticket (you'll find out all about it).

Is the language easy to get to grips with?

Everyone, absolutely everyone (with a few exceptions), speaks English. It's great for communicating with the locals or just to ask for help in case you get lost. Besides, the English they speak there is very good, so you won't have any problems understanding them!

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Where would you recommend for a night out in Nijmegen?

The main street is called Molenstraat, it's full of pubs, which is where you'll meet up with people. Now don't expect to find huge clubs and crazy parties, because there aren't any. There are parties in the pubs, which are good for dancing, like in any city. At the end of the day, how good the party is depends on the people you're with and your attitude.

Do you have any advice for future students in Nijmegen?

First of all, buy a bike, you'll ride it everywhere, even when you go on nights out. Although it might seem like a pain in the beginning, your bicycle will become your best friend (and sometimes your worst nightmare), but it's great to be able to get to any part of the city without having to depend on the public transport schedule.

Secondly, don't be shocked by the weather. Yes, it's a tiring sometimes that it rains all the time or that it's cloudy for a whole month, but in the end you'll get used to it and learn to appreciate the days when it's sunny more than you ever had before. And you'll still go out on your bike even when the weather's bad!

And above all, enjoy it as much as possible, the experience flies by and the Netherlands is a great place to spend it.

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