Groningen everything that you need is at 10 minutes by bike

The Netherlands is a country well known to everyone for different aspects (no, I wouldn't mention what you're thinking). If you have ever had the opportunity to go to the Netherlands, you may have noticed the large number of people riding bicycles. Or the number of bicycles parked in large squares.

Groningen makes no exception to the rule. It is actually the city with the highest proportion of bikes per habitants. Indeed in Groningen there are more bicycles than people. Thus, it's a way of life to adopt and believe me, you get used to it very quickly. It even becomes very difficult when you return to France to start walking again.

That’s why, one of the first things to do when you arrive in Groningen is to find a bike for yourself. Some students residences already include in their prices the loan of a bicycle (such as the Student Hotel). Or some other residences will offer you some at reasonable prices (such as SSH residence).

If you are not in this case, don't panic you will ride the same bike that all of the others : a swapfiets. It is the bike I used all along my second semester.

Recognizable by its blue front wheel, the swapfiets brand offers very competitive prices (no I swear to you I was not paid by them). For 12€ per month you will have a bike and an anti-theft device as well as an assistance and repair service in 24 hours.

Some people will propose you in the street bicycles for 2€, good deal you will tell me however be careful these bicycles are often stolen. In case of complaints your responsibility will be engaged.

But let's get to the point. Why does everyone use a bike? Does that mean it's all very far away?

I assure you, nothing is far away in Groningen. Everything that you need is at 10 minutes by bike maximum.

Indeed the city first of all has really everything that a Student can dream of (to know my top 10 of the best places in Groningen refer to the article in question). Then everything is concentrated in the city center (theatre, bar, supermarket restaurants) which will make it very easy to get from one place to another. It really makes a difference when you go out.

To conclude, know that the bicycle is a beautiful human invention, a profitable and ecological activity. By signing in Groningen one thing is for sure, you will no longer be able to do anything without it.