Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in The Hague
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of living in a shared flat in this Dutch city:
Advantages of sharing a flat in The Hague
- You can choose from a wide range of spare rooms in popular neighbourhoods like Laakkwartier, Zorgvliet, or Statenkwartier.
- You won’t be alone when you arrive in the city, as you’ll have your roommates to rely on from day one.
- Sharing a flat helps you save on rent and monthly bills, allowing you to spend more on other activities and trips around the Netherlands and nearby countries.
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in The Hague
- The demand for shared accommodation in The Hague is very high. Start your search early, especially if you have a limited budget, to increase your chances of finding a suitable room.
- The use of heating in winter can cause disagreements among roommates, both regarding its use and the associated bills if they aren’t included in the rent.
Erasmus Apps for your exchange programme in The Hague
There are some great Erasmus+ apps out there to help you plan your exchange. For example, the European Commission app lets you manage different procedures, request a new mobility, resolve doubts, and read tips and anecdotes from students who have had the experience in previous years.
How to meet people in The Hague
Living in a shared flat means your roommates will likely become some of your closest friends during your stay in The Hague. Besides that, here are some other way to make new friends:
Student associations in The Hague
Check out the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) in The Hague. They organise fun events, parties, and activities to help international students connect with other students. Plus, with their student card, you get discounts on things like low-cost flights!
Facebook groups for Erasmus students in The Hague
Join the ESN The Hague Facebook group to stay updated on their events and activities. You can also find other Erasmus groups based on the academic year, which can help you meet fellow students who will be in The Hague at the same time as you.
WhatsApp groups for Erasmus students in The Hague
Joining WhatsApp groups linked to Facebook groups or student associations is another great way to meet people and make plans.
Tips for living in a shared apartment in The Hague
Here are some tips for living in the Hague:
- The Hague is one of the safest cities in the world, so you don't need to worry much about avoiding specific neighbourhoods.
- Like the rest of the Netherlands, biking is the go-to way to get around, make sure your apartment is near good bike routes. If biking isn't your thing, you can also use the metro, bus, or tram.
- Winters here are cold, cloudy, and windy. Look for an apartment with good insulation and a decent heating system.