Hotel Casa was built to create housing opportunities for students while fostering a vibrant mix of student and guest life. To this day, CASA remains true to her mission: supporting the Bright Young Minds of Tomorrow by hosting 360 resident students from October to May, creating a dynamic and inspiring community
Sara is currently pursuing her Master’s in Business Administration at the University of Amsterdam. Originally from Germany, she’s been calling Amsterdam home for the past three years. In September, she moved into CASA, and here’s her story about life, studying, and settling into the Bright Vibes of CASA.
How did you discover CASA, and why did you choose to live here?
Sara: "My boyfriend used to work at CASA and also lived here last year. That’s how I discovered it, because I didn’t know about this place before. I decided to live here because it’s affordable, and compared to what you usually get in Amsterdam, this is the best option. It’s also nice to live with people who are studying as well and who share similar interests, and also because of the community aspect!"
How did you connect with other students?
Sara: "Of course, there are a lot of events. I’ve been living here for only two months, so I haven’t met that many people through the events yet, but I’ve met some in the kitchen when I was cooking. You meet so many people there, and sometimes I sit with some of my floor mates in the student lounge. I also know a few people from other floors, you just see each other all the time, and I think that’s already a really nice way to connect."
What are your favourite spots in Amsterdam?
Sara: "I love De Pijp, but I think Oost is really underrated. I just love walking around everywhere in Amsterdam, either near the Amstel or here next to the water at Ringdijk. I have this spot in De Pijp called “Good News,” whenever I have time, I walk there, get my coffee, and walk back."
What’s your favourite thing about living at CASA?
Sara: "First of all, the fact that I have my own room and bathroom, that’s such a luxury in Amsterdam! And also the people. I really like having others around me, but at the same time, I still have my privacy and my own space. If I want to hang out, I know I can spend time with people from my floor, join events, or connect through the CASA community group chat. There’s always something happening here."
Anda just started her minor in Gender and Diversity and is doing a Bachelor’s in Literature. Originally from Romania, she’s been living in Amsterdam for two years. It’s her first month at CASA, but she already feels right at home, loving the energy and the people.
How did you discover CASA, and why did you choose to live here?
Anda: "I heard about it through my Dutch friends at university. I think it’s more convenient for them because it runs from October until May."
"I really love the community at CASA. It’s so much fun because there are so many people here, so many new faces, and always someone to talk to."
How did you connect with other students?
Anda: "You just go to the kitchen, and there are like five people there, so you just start talking to them. I think it’s really easy. And the CASA party at the beginning really helps."
What are your favourite spots in Amsterdam?
Anda: "I might be biased, but I really love a good café, especially a cat café. There’s only one big one in Amsterdam, and I think it’s called “Kopjes.” I just love cats and coffee...that’s the perfect combination."
What’s your favourite thing about living at CASA?
Anda: "Probably the community. It’s nice not to feel alone. If you want to be by yourself, you can stay in your room, and if you want to be with people, you can go to the kitchen. I think it’s great for everyone, whether you’re more introverted or extroverted."
Puneet recently moved into CASA. Originally from India, he is studying Economics and Business Economics at the University of Amsterdam. Although he has only just joined the CASA community, he has already been living in Amsterdam for over two years. He’s excited to experience life at CASA and to connect with new people along the way.
How did you discover CASA, and why did you choose to live here?
Puneet: Two of my friends were already living here, and they had a great experience. They recommended CASA to me, and I had also seen their website before coming here. At first, I was a bit hesitant, so I didn’t register right away. But once my friends moved in and told me more about it, I knew I definitely wanted to live here too, especially because the rent is very affordable, and the location is amazing, it's basically in the city centre.
How did you connect with other students?
Puneet: To connect with other students, the CASA parties are a great opportunity. And when I first moved in, everyone was incredibly friendly, which made it really easy to meet people. I just started spending more time in the kitchen, and that’s how I made friends.
What are your favourite spots in Amsterdam?
Puneet: One of my favourite places in Amsterdam is Vondelpark, especially in the summer. And for partying, I usually go to Rembrandtplein because that’s where everyone goes.
What’s your favourite thing about living at CASA?
Puneet: My favourite thing about living at CASA is definitely the people. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming, and there’s always someone who wants to hang out, go out, or have fun. And of course, the location is a huge advantage, I absolutely love living here.
