Erasmus Experience in Turnhout, Belgium by Ana

Why did you choose to go to Turnhout, Belgium?

For its great location (it's quite easy to go to Netherlands, France and all over Belgium or get really cheap flights to other european cities).

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

The scholarship lasts three months. My school gave me about 1200 euros in total (I don't need to say that Belgium is an expensive country and that money just helped me to pay some of the costs of my Erasmus).

What is the student lifestyle like in Turnhout?

I was living in a residence with other students and only two of them were nursing students, so I could see that students from there are quite calm. They don't hang out much but they are nice. If you want to have some fun you have to open your mind a little bit and explore behind those barriers!

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

Yes, absolutely, it's a great experience and you will become a different person, a better person.

What is the food like?

I hated it, honestly (except the part of all the universe of chocolates and waffles!). I am suspicious because I am from Portugal and portuguese gastronomy is based in fish and healthy food, which almost doesn't exist in Turnhout.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Turnhout?

Fortunately at that time the nursing school arranged me accomodation right away, so when I arrived I just had to pay for my room. Be aware of this because for what I understood you have to search for accomodation some time before to get some nice place to stay.

How much does it cost to live in Turnhout?

A lot! Of course, I'm comparing to my country but the food and going out is expensive. Oh the other side, travelling is very cheap.

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

It's not easy but you'll learn something with time. When I arrived there weren't any language courses available so for me it was very difficult in the beggining. If you have the change, do it - it's a great help!

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

From Lisbon, flying to Brussels and then get a train to Turnhout!

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

There are some nice places around Grote Markt and some nice pubs as well. Just explore!

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

My favourite place is Begijnhof!