Experience in Valenciennes, France by Pulkita

What is it like to live in Valenciennes? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

It's a small city, but it has it's own charm. In the beginning I thought I was going to hate it here, and get royally bored. Three years later, I am so glad to be at Valenciennes! Since it's small, everything is close by which makes life so much more easier and convenient. It also helped my entire batch become really close because we often meet up during the weekend (and sometimes even during the week) either for coffee, or a beer, or a party!

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The city is pretty chill, you have everything you need and the prices are just perfect for a student. Transport is not an issue, and if you're ever late for class you can just walk till the university since it's probably 15 minutes away on foot.

What is the student lifestyle like in Valenciennes?

Student lifestyle depends on which university you attend. But mostly everyone gets really close after first year since you'll be spending so much time together. It's also easier making friends (from what I've heard) compared to being at Paris.

They're all very hard-working, and dedicated but also very helpful if you ever need something.

How much does it cost to live in Valenciennes?

Well honestly, Valenciennes isn't expensive. But here's the catch - whatever you do, DO NOT take an appartment in a residence etudiant. IT IS HORRIBLE omg. Go for an appartment, you'll find something more reasonable for double the space.

So without the rent, 400 to 500 euros per month should be more than enough. Then you add the rent, maximum you touch for the rent is like 560 euros (for like a nice big appartment for one person).

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Valenciennes? Is there any advice you can give?

No, finding an appartment is easy. There are agencies and it's easy finding what you want. The best periods to find an appartment is during the month of June, July and August. September is usually a little late, but you could still find something good.

The only advice I would give to a foreign student is that you need to have someone to sign your lease documents - a guardian (guarantor) if you're not earning yourself.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is like food everywhere else in the world I guess. You have pasta, rice, meat, potates... pizza.

I eat everything, but a french student's staple diet consists of pasta and tomato sauce!

What places would you recommend visiting in Valenciennes?

There are museums, there a forest which is cool with a few small hills around if you are into trekking. There's also a huge lake, and during summer it's just perfect to hang around there with friends.

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Is it good to eat out in Valenciennes? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yeah, since Valenciennes isn't that expensive compared to Paris or Lille, eating out is not a huge crime on a student budget.

You can order in from Pizza Rabit, Domino's, Speed Burger. You have a lot of sushi restaurants and bars which serve amazing burgers and stuff.

My favorite spot is Le Bureau. I usually eat there at least two to three times a month!

Is the nightlife good in Valenciennes? Where is good to go?

Nightlife can vary from going to bars like Camel or Le Bureau or Tandem, or going to Showroom(a club), but mostly you'll be having a huge party at one of your friend's house.

What advice would you give future students heading to Valenciennes?

Be prepared, Winter is coming.

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