Erasmus Experience in Rotterdam, Netherlands by Emel

Why did you choose to go to Rotterdam, Netherlands?

I was part of Master Program with ERASMUS+ with Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)

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

The scholarship was 3 months and i receive a payment of 800euro/month which was not enough for the high level of living

What is the student lifestyle like in Rotterdam?

When you are in Rotterdam you understand that all student and you are at same level, there are no distinctions of rich students and poor students.

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

For sure, l really enjoyed Erasmus and the opportunities it gives to you.

What is the food like?

Not so good, if you would like to eat out, you should think it well, I chose to cook at home because in the markets can choose semi-cooked foods.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Rotterdam?

Yes
I spent two months in the dormitory and was very expensive compared to the quality while one month I preferred to stay in a rented house which was even more expensive but the conditions were better.

How much does it cost to live in Rotterdam?

I spent for one month around 1200 euro.

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

Everybody in Rotterdam speak English so it is very easy to communicate and to get the information you want. There were some language courses.

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

For sure by bike. The first month l din't manage to find a bike and l spent around 400euro only for the OV-CheapCard. The other two month that l had the bike it was more comfortable and l really fell independent.

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

Every Tuesday it was "LAtin Night" at "COCONUTS BAR" in center near Municipal Palace.
To drink coffee I went to Thomas Bar ; N!HOW ;
To drink beer at BOOKAL
To go for a party -WITTE de WITH; HUGHS ; VILLA THAILA ;

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

I really liked "Happy Italy" which also had quality, quantity and very good prices.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The Museum Area which include : Kunsthal; Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen; The Maritime Museum's; Euromast;
Cube HOuses with Markthall are a must.

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

Rotterdam has a very good accessibility and it is possible to travel in many places as it is very well connected to the transport system. Take advantage of these opportunities