If there is one thing life in cold countries taught me, it is that we should fully appreciate warmth as much as we can, while we can. After a couple of long-lasting months of winter and creepy leafless trees, spring has finally arrived! The change is clear, not only in the weather but also in the atmosphere of the city. Nijmegen seems like a happier place, and exploring the city is way more fun than on colder days.

For me, one of the most important changes spring brings is more green on the trees. Cycling to university while looking at beautiful trees and flowers is a real treat before lectures and studying. Also, studying when the weather is that good can be very hard. A nice alternative is to study outside! Notes, books and sunglasses in a cozy backyard or a cafeteria are a nice combination.

Another interesting thing about the change of weather is that people look happier. When cycling through the streets of Nijmegen on sunny days a couple of people waived their hands to me or smiled at me for no specific reason. In a way, it feels more like home, especially with the early sunrise and late sunset. Nijmegen is definitely a cozier city at this time of the year. We cannot forget that it will rain again sometimes, but I’d rather think of the sunnier days and be grateful for them.

As for what to do in free time, I would say that one of the nicest places is the river beach. A beautiful view of the Waal river with a smoothie or a beer is quite gezellig while watching boats passing by. It might be a good idea to swim in the river, but if you are a coward when it comes to icy water – like me – you can just wet your feet and be happy about it! Also an important highlight: the cows! While sitting on the beach you can hang out with the cows which always walk around in the area. They are cute-looking creatures, but not if you poke them of course. Last time I was at the beach, some annoying guys poked one of the cows and it was clearly bothered. As a result it came closer to the people and as I am not a brave person, I was getting ready to leave every two minutes! However, this is just one funny aspect that makes it even more worth it to spend time there, because the beach is a wonderful place to be.

With that being said, I would just advise: dress summer-like, take your beer, smoothie or whatever outside and enjoy the sun!

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