Erasmus Experience in Rotterdam, Netherlands by Meg

Why did you choose to go to Rotterdam, Pays-Bas?

Because it was the best for design, and I have friends who have been and said it was amazing. Also I've never been to the Netherlands and wanted to see what their culture is like, also I knew they spoke very good english, and they do!

Source

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

I didn't recieve any money, I was only here for half a year, from August to February.

What is the student lifestyle like in Rotterdam?

It's great, people are so friendly, spontaneous and fun, and are up for just relaxing and chilling but also going out and socialising. Everyone is friendly, there is no clicke groups, everyone is friends with everyone.

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

Yes.

What is the food like?

It's fried!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Rotterdam?

No it didn't, I booked it online before I came to Rotterdam, about 3 months in advance. But a lot of people just turned up and found places when they got there. I think this turned out cheaper for a lot of people, they got rooms through estate agents and things, but were staying in AirBnb places until they found houses. I think booking before is a good idea.

How much does it cost to live in Rotterdam?

I pay 500 euros a month just for the rent.

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

There are language courses, but everyone speaks excellent English here so it's not a problem usually.

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

Cycle.

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

BAR, to 'chips' is the name of the night.

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

I love Dudok, they have the famous Rotterdam apple pie, it's amazing, you must try!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

I like museum park, but the secret garden in the museum park, I didn't know about it until last week actually, its very beautiful and has a lake.

Source

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

If people are going to places and invite you, go along, say yes to everything. The older you get, the less of these chances to go out spontaneously will happen, you end up meeting amazing people and everyone here is so friendly, even if you fuck up or ask silly questions or forget to pay (has happened) they are a forgiving crowd. Have fun!