Experience in The Hague, Netherlands by Cecile

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

The Hague is mostly international and European law oriented because of the many International organizations such as OPCW or ICTY, acronyms that you will soon learn to understand! However there are big companies such as Shell that are very interesting for internship opportunities. It is a very calm city by the sea, where the weather can be quite harsh so I hope you enjoy wearing a raincoat. The nice side of it because it is small everything is accessible by bike.

What is the student lifestyle like in The Hague?

The student lifestyle in the Hague is very quiet compared to other Dutch student cities such as Delft or Rotterdam, however usually Universities organize events for students.

How much does it cost to live in The Hague?

The cost of living in the Hague is quite high (higher than Amsterdam, except for lodging) because of the many diplomats and expats in the city.

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Is it difficult to find accommodation in The Hague? Is there any advice you can give?

It is difficult to find accommodation because most of it is reserved for expats, however usually for international and Erasmus student the universities offer secured student accommodation at a fair price.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is not very varied, and most of the restaurants offer international food such as Surinamese or Indonesian. However the Dutch do have a culture of fried appetizers called bitterballen or croquettes, and of course the famous haring for those who are more adventurous.

What places would you recommend visiting in The Hague?

Visit as much international organizations as you can, sign up to attend International criminal cases when they are open to the public. The Peace Palace is a must to visit but also the art museum which has the famous Girl with a pearl earring from Vermeer.

Is it good to eat out in The Hague? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

It is good to eat in the Hague for students the cheapest place to go is either Va piano or VIP, Italian restaurants that are very good and cheap! Otherwise for a higher budget they have nice semi-gastro restaurants that are very cheap for the quality fun to try once!

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Is the nightlife good in The Hague? Where is good to go?

There are not many clubs, but the bars are quite fun and lively, best to go out on a Thursday or Friday! There are two main areas to go out Plein and Grotemark. In summer, the beach area offers many bar options!

What advice would you give future students heading to The Hague?

Buy a bicycle and a rain coat, and you will have the time of your life in the Hague! A lot of internationals live there so you will meet very interesting people !