Erasmus Experience in Utrecht, Netherlands by Manon

Why did you choose to go to Utrecht, Netherlands?

I wanted to go a European city, not too big and too small either, with History and strong culture, where I could meet lots of students. And Utrecht was the perfect place!

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

My scholarship is 6 months and I will receive 640€ for the stay, which is, unfortunately, the main drawback.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Utrecht?

It's crazy! The ESN organization really takes great care of you, making sure you are well integrated, and they organize great parties, you can do loads of activities too, and trips as well, and the prices for all those activities are very affordable! Plus, as you're a student, you can have very interesting discounts in the city but everywhere as well!

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

I would highly recommend to everyone to come to Utrecht!

What is the food like?

It's not very different from other European countries! One who visits Utrecht must taste the famous Stroopwafels, which is delicious!

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Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Utrecht?

Not at all, I was on the website Erasmus.nl and found my apartment very quickly!

Otherwise, you can register on the SSH housing website, to find an accommodation nearby the university!

How much does it cost to live in Utrecht?

As a French student, I think Utrecht is very affordable. Living here is way less expensive than living in France. However, the transports are quite expensive: 2. 70 € a bus ticket, it's too much!

But one must invest in a bike, it's easier, healthy, fast and the city is like designed for bikes so enjoy this opportunity!

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

As everyone here speaks in English, it has been quite easy to talk to people. The language was my main concern before coming to Utrecht, but eventually, I realize that I was afraid for nothing: English is the second language here and you can be sure that everyone speaks it! So don't be afraid about that, you'll fit in easily. Plus, there are a lot of students here, so you will always someone speaking your native language, and you'll be able to improve your English, and for the more courageous learn Dutch!

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

From Paris, I took the bus (Flixbus): 6 hours of bus, for 25€, it worths it. Plus, the bus is clean, there's Wifi and electrical outlets, so it's very convenient.

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

I would highly recommend going the Blessed parties, that happens once every two or three months: music for Dancehall, reggeaton, Hip Hop and Rnb lovers!

The Café Hoffman is also a great bar, with nice music. If you're more a Pop-Electro enthusiast, Tivoli is the place for you! Finally, if you're a student, you're gonna enjoy a beer every Tuesdays at Poema, very nice place with 1€ beers, and great music!

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

I would recommend trying every little bistros and pub, you can be sure you'll find your happiness.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

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

Come in Utrecht, and go visit the cities around: you can go to Amsterdam for only 7€, Rotterdam for 8, The Hague, Delfe, Eindhoven, Groningen... there are so many beautiful cities around!

Make sure you'll be here for the 26&27th of April because it's the Kingsday and it's absolutely crazy!

Make sure you have a bike, it is very useful, but don't forget the padlock!