The Amsterdammer

Being the “broke friend” in the group can be daunting and discouraging. You want to keep up socially, but adult friendships are dependent on swiping yourself into a post-spend anxiety attack. A lunch date, a festival ticket, club entrance fees, and drinks after work cause some painful financial deficits. Having an active social life is simply an expensive lifestyle choice in 2019. How is one to survive?

Canceling plans and staying home causes the formidable FOMO, yet going out means counting change in the corner while feeling guilty every time a friend has to spot you. Dealing with your “broke friend” status requires mental tenacity and considerable penny-pinching in order to come to terms with the social imbalances. A dual solution of a change in attitude and spending habits is all anyone can really do.

For starters, the way we decide to view our situation can completely change the experience of our financial condition. For most of us this means actually applying a cliche as old as time – taking a step back and looking at all the things we do have, rather than what we do not. Many of us are fortunate enough to attend university in a beautiful city, have friends from around the world and safely rest our heads at night. Finding some happiness in the wonder of those simple things can release much anxiety.

On the practical side of things, there is a lot, particularly in the Netherlands, that a student can do to save money and ease the strain on their budget. Spending less, attending free and low cost events, while applying for financial support can greatly change a student’s lifestyle.

When it comes to the shopping necessities of student life, there is always a cheaper alternative than the obvious commercial mainstays. Grocery shopping at stores like Aldi and Lidl over Albert Heijn can double the bang for your buck. If one is in need of new clothes, flea markets and thrift shops can save tens to hundreds of Euros. At IJ-Hallen, the largest flea market in Europe, it is easy to purchase expensive labels and gently used items for pocket change. A new, cheaper bike can be found on Marktplaats or the Waterlooplein market than at the traditional stores. The basic lesson is that for every type of shop in Amsterdam, there is a used or generic version that can help maintain the student wallet.

As for dealing with the social dollar, Amsterdam and other cities often provide more affordable entertainment than meets the eye. Take a break from the traditional bar or club scene and drag your friends to the many free events around the city. The Tollhouse Garden and IJzaal, both at the cultural center Tolhuistuin in Noord, have ticket-free music and social events to enjoy in the park without spending money every weekend. Checking the sites for the parks and cultural centers of Amsterdam can always provide the friend group with some low cost entertainment. Kaskantine and Taste Before You Waste offer cheaper dinner alternatives, while allowing you to still meet up with friends and have an eco-conscious meal. Often, both venues host cultural events as well. The universities, museums, and even certain clubs all host free events from time to time, all a quick online search away. Sites like Eventbrite’s Amsterdam page or the I Amsterdam calendar can give a quick list of activities to do while providing a filter for free events. Right now, there are over 30 free events listed for March. The possibilities are endless if one takes a break from financial expectations and looks at something new.