General Hacks

Welcome! Welcome! I’m very happy you are here with us! New semester is right around the corner! Many new challenges and excitements are waiting for you! :)
If this is your first semester in Bonn a series of short, but informative posts about shopping and international socialising will be very useful! I will introduce you to the places where you can buy everything you may need as a new resident, but also later on, for every day basis.

African Market by Sonia Tesfaye Abebe

Bonn has many hidden gems and exploring the city's iconic landmarks, such as the Beethoven House, paying homage to the musical genius, and the captivating Poppelsdorf Palace has been so much fun.

The picturesque Rhine River that gracefully winds through the city presents an inviting backdrop for leisurely walks and moments of reflection. Bonn's charming Old Town, replete with cobblestone streets and quaint cafes, beckons with its historical allure. And, of course, the United Nations Campus is a unique site that embodies the city's international significance.

Beyond the enchanting tourist attractions, Bonn boasts several intriguing spots that add an extra layer of excitement to life here—these are the numerous international food markets and shops representing various nations. Being from Ethiopia, I found genuine delight in discovering the Afro Beauty House, a haven for cultural treasures from Ethiopia and Eritrea. This emporium allowed me to reconnect with elements of home through its array of aromatic spices and specialized hair products, evoking a sense of familiarity and comfort.

Moreover, along Wilhelmstraße, one encounters a multitude of African shops offering an array of multifaceted delights. From essentials like Cassava, Yams, and Plantains to specialty items like Native Rice and Coconut oil, these diverse offerings entice the senses and serve as reminders of home.

The International Club by Klaudia İnanç

Moving to another country is a life changer! Brings new opportunities, new friendships, but unfortunately it also brings difficulties… I know that first weeks are the hardest especially if you decided to come here on your own. How can you overcome this loneliness? There are many groups and associations based in Bonn (or Köln) which keep gathering people together! :) I would like to share with you one of the first ones I have joined once I came here.

WhatsApp Group

International Club, a WhatsApp group, where you get to know people and you are informed about amazing events! Moreover you can get a chance to buy some items for very affordable price!

If you would like to join to this group, please contact me: k.inanc@dependency.uni-bonn.de 

The India Student Association of Bonn-Cologne provides support and help to Indian students who are currently living or about to start their semester in Bonn-Cologne. The group members are very friendly and you might bond with someone who speaks your mother tongue! The team actively organises events, from Diwali to Independence Day, Durga Puja to Christmas along with meet and greet sessions for the new comers, city tours and fun events like the Bollywood night and other cultural events. They also cater to student needs by organising the “student open house” with CGI (Consulate General of India, Frankfurt) to provide valuable guidance about career design and the European job market. Sign up for the WhatsApp and Facebook group to be a part of the community and do not hesitate to write to them if you’re in need: isa.bonncologne@gmail.com

This group happens to be my personal favourite because I got to know so many Indian students and an opportunity to engage in social events that made my initial snow-clad winter filled with happiness and warmth. International students like us will always long to delve into the comfort of communicating in their own language and organise and be part of events that would make you feel at home and hence ISBAC might be your go to option if you’re an Indian!