Utrecht, as one of the oldest cities, is the most populous city and the capital of the province of Utrecht in the Netherlands. Here you can find a big amount of historical buildings, shops, museums. Furthermore, Utrecht hosts famous festivals every year. As the "most vibrant city" in the Netherlands, Utrecht is one of the most comfortable places for living. This city is well known for the largest student population in the country. So more than 60% of inhabitants are highly educated.
There is one interesting fact that Utrecht is a real bicycle city with long bicycle roads and big parking facilities.
largest city in the Netherlands
In the Dutch healthcare system, your doctor/general practitioner plays the main role. Because when you are ill, you consult your general practitioner, who will give a special letter for a medical specialist. That`s why you need to sign up for doctor`s practice.
Medications are provided by pharmacies, chemists and supermarkets in Utrecht. Most medicine is covered by insurance (only if you have a prescription). However, you can buy some drugs without a prescription.
Dutch healthcare system in 2015 was rated as the best in Europe (this country spends around 11.2% of GDP on health). Furthermore, almost all doctors there speak English (English is a second language for more than 80% of Dutch). Besides, it is obligatory to take out standard health insurance in the Netherlands for everyone.
Your employer will pay 6.75% of your salary for you for the basic insurance (Zvw), and deduct 9.65% from your pay for the long-term care (Wlz). Also, you have to pay monthly contributions to your health insurer.
There is a three-level educational system in the Netherlands. On the third level you can choose between vocational (HBO = University of Applied Sciences) and academic (WO = Research University) level. Bachelor's and Master's degree are available. There are two kinds of institutions in the Netherlands: private and governmental (Dutch government sets Dutch university fees). For EU students Dutch university fees start from 1 950 EUR, but for non-EU students, Dutch university fees for Bachelor`s programmes are between 6 000 EUR and 15 000 EUR and for Master’s programmes between 8 000 EUR and 20 000 EUR. Here you can find universities, colleges and education providers in Utrecht.
Utrecht, as a city with an oceanic climate, is considered as a place with mild summers and winters. The average temperature in summer is 22°C (71 °F) and in winter 3°C (37 °F).
average summer temperature
average temperature in winter
Utrecht is a very safe city, as the rest of the country. This city has a safety level of 67% safe according to Numbeo`s rating. However, as in every city you have to be more careful at night and in overcrowded places. And about crime, this city is also safe for residents.
Numbeo
Safety Index
Utrecht is a center of water, railway, and road infrastructure in the Netherlands. However, according to the economic strategy, this city is working on improving the living and working environment. Utrecht, as one of the biggest cities in the Netherlands, is a city with 3 main values in business quality, creativity and sustainability. Now Utrecht attracts professionals from many countries.
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Expat communities are common in Utrecht because there you can connect with other expats, find friends and help if it is needed.
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