Universiteit van Amsterdam (UVA)

Rents are expensive. Tips are much less than in US/UK, so worth bearing in mind that it is enought to round off the bill. The cheapest veggies and fruit can be found at markets - supermarkets are expensive, especially Albert Hein (even though the nicest one).

The UvA Dormitory at Sarphatistraat 145 is within 5 min walking distance from the Economics Faculty buildings and right above the super market with extended opening hours. The whole area is very picturesque. You can relax in the Osterpark, go to the Windmill or lay at the bank of canals surrounding the place. Sarphatistraat is rather peaceful part of the city located next to the relaxed Plantage district where one can find the Amsterdam ZOO and Botanical Garden with cozy restaurants and cafes. It is worth to mention that Administration of the Dormitory "De Key" provided tenants with all washing equipment free of charge. The kitchen in the apartments is fully equipped. And if you are planning to use palnes while in Amsterdam you will soon discover that to get to the Schiphol airport simply take the subway line to the Wespeerplein Station (10 min within walking distance from the Dormitory). You will also Highly Recommended!

Communication is not a problem in Holland because virtually everyone here understands and speaks a bit of English. Although I still intend to go for dutch classes before finishing my master program because I want maximize the opportunity of studying in Holland, but so far, so good, I am able to learn some basic phrases by interacting with the local people in public places like shops, insides buses e.t.c

I was a very good experience because I could know a lot of people from every place in the world

I wrote down my experience in a blog: www.hector624.com