A Few Months in Utrecht!

Why did you choose to go to Utrecht, the Netherlands?

Because of the Netherland's central position in Europe. This lets me travel to lots of different places. Furthermore the language (my course is taught entirely in English) was one of the reasons for which I came to Holland to to my Erasmus placement.

How long is your placement? How much money did you receive as a grant?

My placement was from August 2010 to April 2011.

What's the student scene like in Utrecht?

Very good. It's a small city so you get to know it quickly and feel like you've always lived there.

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

Yes, the city is beautiful and the university is very progressive.

What's the country's food like?

Good...it's not Spanish food, but I get by.

How did you find accommodation?

The SSH Student Housing website. It's practically impossible to find it any other way.

What are accommodation costs like? And living costs in general?

For housing, between 350 and 600 euros in university accommodation. The cost of living is generally similar to Spain.

How's the language? Have you done a course at the University?

Very difficult to start with, but you'll quickly pick it up.

What's the cheapest way to get to Utrecht from your city?

You can find flights for 6-9€ from Valladolid - Dusseldorf, then the train costs 25€ to Utrecht. Or, KLM fly Madrid - Amsterdam and it usually costs 99€ for a return ticket. The train from Amsterdam to Utrecht is 7€ and takes 15 minutes.

Where would you recommend to go out in Utrecht?

Monza.

And eating in Utrecht? Could you tell us some of your favourite places?

El Greco do an incredible kebab!

And what is there to do for a cultural visit?

There are islands to the north of Holland.

Do you have any advice that you'd like to give to future students in Utrecht?

Beneluxlaan is, in my opinion, the best place to live in Utrecht. Don't buy a bike from a shop, try to buy one from a previous student. There are millions of bikes so don't just get the first one you see. Enjoy your stay! :D