Erasmus Experience in Utrecht, Netherlands by Karim

Why did you choose to go to Utrecht, Netherlands?

I choose it because there is a lot of environmental-related courses and because the English of the people living here is nearly perfect and I want to improve mine.

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

My scholarship is 10 months long and I receive 400 € every month from the French state.

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

Yes, totally (if you are not afraid of the bad weather).

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What is the food like?

There is a great diversity in food; in fact, you have food from every country.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Utrecht?

I arrived at the beginning of August and it was hard to find accommodation; after some days I insisted on an agency and they offered me a room. Before I move in, a Dutchman housed me, I found him on Couchsurfing (it's a good way to begin to know the people of Utrecht).

How much does it cost to live in Utrecht?

If you're not a party animal, it doesn't cost a lot ^^. Fruit and vegetables are cheap on Kanaalstraat (near the central station). And Nettorama or other discount shop is, in general, cheaper than Albert Heijn.

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

All the people from the Netherlands speak very good English. I didn't want to learn Dutch, but you will learn some word. I think you can take free courses at the university but you have to be fast because they begin in August.

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

From Paris, the better way is the bus. The price is around 25€ (for one way) in companies like Omnibus and Flixbus.

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

On the centre of Utrecht, there is a lot of bars and pubs to the party.

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

I don't go to restaurants but for an after-party, if you want to eat, there is a Turkish restaurant that stays open all the night (in front of the Albert Hijn near the mosque).

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are some castles around the city and you can visit the centre through canoe on the canals.

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

Bring an umbrella and some D Vitamins.

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