I did not expect to find such a gem of a store while overseas. Hema is the Netherlands version of a…read moreTarget or Walmart in the U.S. They sell everything from clothing, to housewares, to school supplies all under one roof. I did not find any larger electronics (i.e. Flat screens, etc) only smaller appliances such as an iron. This store is tri-level and comfortably large. By comfortably I mean one will not get lost. The cleanliness of the store is what is most impressive. There was a level of organization that I have not seen in U.S. chain stores. This could be because I was there when the doors opened, but I asked some of the locals, and word is the store is well kept. At any rate, Hema will remain on my list of go-to stores will on study abroad.

Emmaus is another thrift store that I like to stop by on my visits to pastoral Friesland. It's very…read moregood for furniture, household items and books. I don't recommend it as much for women's clothes. The staff are pretty helpful. The prices can be a bit 'hit or miss.' If I lived there, I would probably enjoy it a bit more. It's hard to fit an armoire on a plane!

Apart from being overwhelmed with Groningen happiness and youthfulness, I was amazed how good the…read morefood is. And this particular joint called Werkman restaurant, stood out with the quality of the its dishes and its outstanding hospitality. I had a tomato soup, Parmesan fried and a glass of the most delicious and refreshing Syrah, and it was fresh and very tasty. It's a perfect end to the day full of endless cycling and walking. So happy to discover it. Will be back for more. Cheers.

This is a big crazy barn full of used items arranged into stations managed by helpful employees. I…read moremust be honest in stating that it's a bit overwhelming for an English speaker. It especially was my first time there, when I got dreadfully lost on the way there and showed up already frazzled moments before there were closing. A month ago I made it back under somewhat calmer circumstances (well, not really, I had a child with me then). An important thing to know about the experience is that each station requires payment in its area. The manager from the next area won't know what to charge you for items in the preceding area and then you'll have to go back. Confusion will ensue. Once you know how it works, I can almost guarantee you that you will find some amazing antique or cool rare item in almost every area. The pricing is a little erratic, but very fair in general. It was here that I had my most incredible shopping deal ever: a genuine antique baby pram with bedding and the original receipt for twenty five Euros! I haven't managed to get it in my luggage (or to have a baby) but it's still the best find EVER! My family in Friesland has put it to some use, luckily. The only section of Lichtpunt I pass on is the clothing. For clothing, I prefer Pikulan. Otherwise, check this place out! (Confirm the hours before you go. They're not open a lot.)

They have a Grumpy Cat calendar! In Dutch! And some cool postcards and other knick-knacks that…read moreescaped my notice, because they have a Grumpy Cat calendar! And other Grumpy Cat merchandise! And also some cool postcards, but also Grumpy Cat!!

As a newbie to Groningen we are looking to fill our new apartment with some sweet items to make it…read moreour own. There are rustic wooden furniture pieces, sheepskins, French soaps, woollen throws, candles, dinnerware and many colourful individual cushions and much more. I spent my first visit looking at everything and will go back again to shop. I especially like the plaques with phrases on them, just which one to choose is the dilemma. Can see myself in here every week.