Windmills, Gouda cheese, tulips, canals, coffee shops, Amstel brewery; these are probably the most common answers someone could give when asked to describe Holland. At a first glance yes, the aforementioned are a trademark of the Low Lands, but in reality, there is so much more than meets the eye. Apart from the most popular Dutch destinations, there are small towns near Amsterdam, ready to be explored without having to spend a fortune. At one of these towns, I had the chance to spend almost a month, with a low budget of course, so I decided to collect my notes and share them with those who believe that a true traveler is anyone who explores places that are not displayed on magazine covers. Let’s meet the city of Enschede!
A gothic student town that may not have an airport, but it is still easily accessible by train from the Schiphol airport in Amsterdam. The intercity train premises are located inside the airport and the route is exactly two hours. Tip: It is recommended that you book your ticket a couple of days prior and have it printed on the train.
A relatively small town, with 100.000 residents but the lifestyle of a small village, it preserves its vibrant essence thanks to the international students that arrive on an annual basis, from all over the world. The city center features picturesque buildings, most of them built during B’ World War, since Enschede was completely destroyed during the German raid. The only buildings of gothic rhythm that survived the invasion are the churches of the town, two of them located in Oude Markt, the most central square of the area that gathers all the youngsters thanks to its numerous café-bistro and bars.
Accessible Art
Buurtkamer De Vleeschhouwerij: For museum and exhibition enthusiasts that can’t afford or don’t wish to pay an entrance fee, the Buurtkamer De Vleeschhouwerij museum is the ideal choice. A former butcher shop that reopened in 2011 and exhibits items and furniture that survived the invasion of B’ World War. In addition, someone can also admire pieces of local artists that regularly change.
Creatief Atelier Twente: Α unique gallery that exhibits art by disabled students, located in the University of Twente. The entrance to the gallery is free of charge and someone has the chance to observe the artists on act, especially during morning hours.
Having a good lunch or enjoy a drink is a must even for low budget travelers. Life in smaller towns around Amsterdam, offer a cheaper lifestyle and maybe this is why so many students choose to study in cities like Enschede. The following suggestions are indicative and are based on the good quality combined with affordable prices (value for money).
Happy Italy: Authentic, Italian cuisine in a pleasant, youthful environment, right in the city center. A grande pizza only costs 4 – 6,5 euros!
Soestdijk Grand Café: The ideal spot for afternoon coffee or drink. Vintage atmosphere, excellent service and of course, low prices! Two double cappuccino with a Baileys shot as a special treat, only for 4 euros and a cold glass of beer for only 2 euros.
Flea Market Langestraat: At the most central place of the town, where all locals meet for their daily shopping, a big flea market is set every weekend and on holidays, where you can literally find everything: local cheese, warm donuts, alcoholic drinks and beverages, freshly squeezed juice and so on. If you happen to wander around the market, you will find second hand clothes and accessories. If you wish to feel like a local and enjoy local delicacies, you should definitely pay a visit!
For Nature Lovers…
Netherlands, the country of cyclists- not by chance- with well – organized trails, streets and wonderful nature that offers extraordinary views during the year. If you are a cycling or trekking enthusiast then Enschede is the perfect place for you! Someone can choose between the three biggest parks: Abraham Ledeboerpark, Volkspark and Wesselerbrinkpark, open 24 hours a day and suitable for various activities for all seasons. A quite popular choice is the campus of the University of Twente. Full of small rivers, lakes, deciduous and evergreen trees, chickens, flamingos and other animals, it is the ideal place for jogging, cycling or trekking. The campus also has a cafeteria for some relaxing moments after a long walk in nature.
Enschede is a town that someone can easily feel familiar with. The picturesque streets, the nature itself creating a fairytale landscape and friendly and polite locals, are going to make you love this place from the first moment. So close to Amsterdam and with affordable transportation, you have no excuse!
Also published at Parallaxi Magazine
Μαρία Ελένη Βασιλειάδη 