An ideal Saturday in Rotterdam
Balint, a Double Bachelor in Econometrics and Economics student at Erasmus School of Economics takes you through his ideal way to spend a Saturday in the Dutch city.
#1: A Croissant at De Broodbakkers
At the heart of Lusthofstraat is a cozy bakery that serves the best croissant in town. I have spent countless Saturday mornings sitting at the little wooden table outside the bakery, entangled with a soft grey blanket, sipping a cappuccino, and eating a croissant, as life moved slowly on the street.
#2: Talk to the barista at Master’s Tea & Coffee
For as little as €3, I received a fresh and heavenly tasting cappuccino, a bonbon with a heartwarming design, and the comforting presence of the shop owner. Ask him about his cousin if you visit – it’s worth it!
#3: Read a book at the Kralingse Plas
An elderly woman was blocking the sun for me with a wide smile on her face. She was surprised I was reading a physical book. Although I did not speak much Dutch at the time we managed a clumsy conversation. She was on her regular walk with her dog and told me that her grandson also studies at Erasmus University Rotterdam. She was so open to talk, even though we did not have a common language. I put my sunglasses back and watched the runners and the sailboats go by around me. Another magical moment in Rotterdam.
#4: Sunset run to Hotel New York
I got into the habit of ending my whole-day study sessions with a long run – with the sun setting in a warm orange glow in front of me. Water taxis speeding, crew ships arriving, people cycling back home after work. There’s something about the area near Hotel New York – something untamed. Staring at the statues of Holland Amerikaplein, I often find myself wondering what it would be like to step onto one of those ships and disappear for a while. Go see for yourself!
