Erasmus Experience in Utrecht, Netherlands by Estibaliz, Tiba.

Why did you choose to go to Utrecht, Netherlands?

The truth, i don't know, i got the feeling it was gonna be legendary.

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

I just came here for 5 months, and supposedly the government had to give me around 200 euros per month, but i haven't received any money yet. Apparently i should receive a part this December.
So my advice is; do not count with the government's money allowance (if you are Spanish)

What is the student lifestyle like in Utrecht?

Utrecht is full of students, you can find lots of international students, but the good thing is that is also full of dutch people, so you can get to make dutch friends, and practice the language, and the best, they can take you to the Holland parts a foreign does not know.
You always have something to do, parties, dinner, other activities...

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

Yes, absolutely. You are near all the other cities. It's beautiful, and there are plenty of things to do. The university its great, they help you.

What is the food like?

You would not have problems to find good food. As i said, there are lots of nationalities, therefore there are lots of restaurants you can eat in. Of course all of the dishes have the dutch touch, little spicy i have to say.
The best; the desserts!

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Utrecht?

A lot!! It is the first thing you must do when you find out you're coming to Utrecht. It a challenge to find some good thing. My advice, start looking as soon as possible!

How much does it cost to live in Utrecht?

If we include the apartment rent -400 euros- plus food for one month -100 euros- and parties (around) -100 euros-, transport, you have your bike, but for travel you can afford a chip card with around 80 euros you would be good. Depends on how much you like to party, travel etc.

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

In my case, i didn't wanted to learn dutch, but of course you have available classes if you want. The university helps a lot. Everybody speaks really good English though.

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

In my case, Madrid-Utrecht, by plane of course.
But by train is a nice trip.

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

Depends on what do you like, i personal like bars, like Cafe Belgium, Chupitos bar and in the square called Neude you can find lots of bars.
To dance, Tivoli, near central station

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

The Greek restaurant in the canal, Stan and Co'.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are lots of museums, the Domn, interesting arquitecture...

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

Go to all the plans that are up to, never stay at home! Even if it is -7 degrees and raining, you always gonna have a really good time. I can promise, you'll never know.
Oh! must visit Ameliesweerd forest.