Erasmus Experience in Rotterdam, Netherlands by Sebastian

Why did you choose to go to Rotterdam, Netherlands?

Source

Good location within Europe, easy to travel and I knew I could practice my English, cause they all have good level.

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

€1500 total for 1 year.

What is the student lifestyle like in Rotterdam?

Relaxed, there is a good vibe.

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

Source

Yes, but the induction to the university and to the city should be more organized and planned through the different programs. It took me some time to get use to some aspects and learn about practical things, and I missed some events.

What is the food like?

Sausages and potatos, I didn't eat traditional food so much, basically cooked for myself all the time. Quality and variety of food you can find is good.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Rotterdam?

Do it through the University if possible, otherwise is more expensive and hard to arrange a decent price quality option.

How much does it cost to live in Rotterdam?

I had discount in rent €350, it should have been around €500, besides that €300 for food and party if you plan well is enough.

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

Basic one in my program, is not so easy.

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

Source

Plane to Madrid or Rome, then train or low cost airplane to Eindhoven then Rotterdam.

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

Club Vie, Club Bed, several bars and clubs in Witte de Withstraat, Bird club.

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

Bazar, Happy Italy and Very Italian pizza.

What are good cultural sites there to visit?

Kinderdijk (windmills), Museum Park.

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

Bla Bla car (car pooling) for travel within NL and to other countries, Ryanair for low cost plane, facebook group for buying bike, cooking tools and so on, Aldi (cheapest supermarket), learn some dutch in advance (good for ice breaking), learn about the culture traditional parties (carnaval, etc) beforehand, be in touch with organizations of the University so you don't miss important events of the city and Campus.