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Groceries and Household Essentials

Understanding where to access important services is critical while starting your academic adventure in the Netherlands. Grocery stores are your go-to for fresh vegetables, snacks, and pantry necessities, and they provide a wide range of international and local cuisines to suit your interests. Meanwhile, pharmacy stores sell over-the-counter medications and healthcare supplies to keep you healthy while you study. Furthermore, household goods stores provide a variety of essential items for your daily needs, ranging from kitchenware to cleaning supplies, making your new home seem like home. Navigating these stores is an important aspect of adjusting to life in the Netherlands and ensuring you have all you need to succeed as an international student.

Image by Tara Clark

Grocery Shopping

The most important stores for doing your groceries.

Albert Heijn

Grocery Store

Albert Heijn, also known as "AH," is a household name in the Netherlands. AH provides a familiar and pleasant shopping experience for international students. Here you'll discover a large selection of food, fresh produce, and household supplies. One of the reasons international students pick AH is because of its handy locations, with stores located around the country. The AH-to-Go concept is ideal for students on the road, since it provides short meals and snacks for their hectic schedules. Furthermore, AH usually offers student discounts, making it a cost-effective option for your everyday buying needs.

Kruidvat

Pharmacy and Drugstore

Kruidvat is a well-known pharmacy and retail store in the Netherlands that sells a wide variety of healthcare supplies, cosmetics, and everyday necessities. During their stay in the Netherlands, international students may find themselves in Kruidvat for a variety of reasons. Kruidvat is a convenient one-stop shop for over-the-counter medications for mild diseases, personal care goods, vitamins, and even household necessities. They also provide low-cost health and cosmetic brands, making it a fantastic choice for students trying to stay healthy on a budget.

Jumbo

Grocery Store

Jumbo is a fantastic choice for international students searching for a supermarket that blends variety and value. Jumbo stores are noted for their broad product selection, which ranges from low-cost necessities to gourmet delicacies. It's a fantastic spot to try both Dutch and international cuisine. The "Jumbo Foodmarkt" businesses provide a one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experience under one roof. What distinguishes Jumbo is their "7 Days Price Promise," which ensures you get the greatest deals on your favourite things.

Hema

Household

When living in the Netherlands as an international student, visiting HEMA, a well-known household goods store, might be a wise decision. HEMA is more than simply a store; it's a treasure trove of everyday necessities, Dutch delicacies, and high-quality products at reasonable prices. HEMA offers a wide range of things, from kitchenware and home decor to delectable snacks and unique Dutch delights, whether you're setting up your new home or simply looking to enjoy local Dutch culture. With its nationwide presence, HEMA is not only convenient but also cost-effective, making it a perfect choice for students who want to make their new home seem cosy and authentic while staying within their budget.

Special Grocery Stores

Embracing the cultural diversity of the Netherlands, our special grocery stores section features a variety of specialised supermarkets catering to international tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for real Asian cuisine, Polish delights, or late-night convenience, these one-of-a-kind grocery stores will make your Dutch culinary experience feel more like home. From aromatic spices and exotic fruits to traditional Polish specialties and 24-hour convenience, these establishments offer a flavour of home away from home, allowing you to eat your favourite foods even while studying abroad.

Asian Supermarkets

The Amazing Oriental stores in the Netherlands offer a diverse tapestry of flavours and cultures. These dynamic culinary diversity hotspots are a must-see for international students looking for a taste of home or a gastronomic adventure. You'll find a wide variety of Asian ingredients, spices, and original products at these establishments, which can improve your cooking and introduce you to new culinary experiences. Whether you're looking for a familiar dish from home or want to try something new, these supermarkets have you covered. Furthermore, the low pricing make it an excellent choice for students wishing to reduce their living expenses while still enjoying great and variety cuisine selections.

Eating with Chopsticks

Polish Supermarkets

Polish supermarkets in the Netherlands are a hidden gem for international students looking for a taste of home while studying in the Netherlands. These shops sell a wide range of Polish products, from traditional foods and beverages to well-known brands that are not widely available in Dutch supermarkets. Students frequently find solace in visiting Polish stores since they can find the ingredients for their favourite foods from home, establishing a sense of nostalgia and connection to their country. These supermarkets are a welcoming shelter for international students wanting a flavour of Poland while studying in the Netherlands, whether it's the taste of traditional pierogi, kielbasa, or Polish pastries.

Image by Naseem Buras

Night Shops

Night shops serve a unique role in catering to the requirements of students and night owls equally in the vibrant and bustling Netherlands. These late-night convenience stores are a haven for individuals in need of snacks, beverages, and everyday necessities. As a student, you may be lured to a night shop after a lengthy study session or when you need a midnight snack. Whether it's a sudden hankering for Dutch cheese, a late-night study session fueled by energy drinks, or an unexpected need for toiletries, night shops have you prepared. They are a lifeline for students, selling a diverse choice of things after most ordinary businesses have closed for the evening.

Gas Station Shop

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