Hey you! If you are interested in the HZ, I'm sure you are already aware where it's located – in the small, but picturesque city of Vlissingen. I know – you probably never heard of it and it can’t really be compared to Amsterdam or Rotterdam, but don’t underestimate its potential. I will show you some of the advantages that living in a small city has and why life in Vlissingen is so cool.
- Advantage #1 – The cost of living is very low
This is without a doubt one of the biggest benefits of living in Vlissingen. Since it is a small town, accommodation is not that expensive (between 270-350 euros for a room), you don’t need to use public transport, because you can reach everything by bike and going out for a coffee or to a club is very affordable. I can assure you that around 500 euros will be more than enough to survive and not miss out on any fun! If you live in a bigger city, there is a very big chance that your room will cost at least 400 euros, you have to use public transport every single day (a one-way ticket sometimes can be up to 5 euros!!) and there will be so many events to visit that you will find yourself completely broke in one week.
- Advantage #2 – Everything is close to you
As I mentioned a few lines above, you can reach every part of the town easily and fast, which is certainly a plus when you realize you overslept and you have a class in 20 minutes! If you live in a big city, there is no way you can make it, but in Vlissingen – it sure is possible. You should buy a bike – it will quickly become your best friend! You can find a pretty decent bike for 50-80 euros, but the investment is worth it, since you will be a lot more flexible and quicker. And when the weather is good you can go to the nearby town of Middelburg or visit one of the many nice beaches in the area. If the weather isn't as good you can always look for a bus that goes where you need to be.
- Advantage #3 – Everyone knows each other
At first, this may not sound as a very big advantage, but trust me, it is! In the beginning of the school year, the HZ will organize an introduction week – it is five days full of activities that aim to bring all international students together and make them feel at home. During that time, you will meet many people, find some of your new friends and definitely party a lot! But let’s get back to the point – since Vlissingen is a relatively small city, knowing almost all international students will for sure give you a sense of belonging.
- Advantage #4 – You have a calm and hospitable environment
With its population of approximately 45 000 people, Vlissingen is a safe and peaceful town, which means that your parents won’t have to worry about your safety when they let you move here. Honestly, the worst thing that can happen here is to have your bike stolen –a lot of people have been in that situation. Luckily you can get another bike for not too much money, and maybe invest some more money on a lock next time! Moreover, people here are very friendly and willing to help you in any situation. In the first few months of my first year I wasn’t used to the environment and architecture here, it all looked the same to me, so I got lost quite a few times. However, I could always ask people passing nearby to help me out and give me some directions.
So these are just a few of the many advantages of living in a small city, especially in Vlissingen. If you come from a bigger city, it might be a bit difficult to adjust and accept the fact that you don’t have as much to do at first, but when your intro week starts and you find the right people, you will sure change your mind for the better!
