Thomas welcomes you to Breda

From Limburg's Roermond to the vibrant Breda: Thomas made a journey during his student days from logistics to digital, and from unfamiliar territory to a place that felt like home. During his studies in Logistics Management at BUas and later in Digital Business Concepts at Fontys (Tilburg), he lived and thrived in Breda. “I didn't know the city at all before I started studying here, but I immediately felt at home.”

An unexpected click

Thomas is sober, social and always up for something new. When he started his studies at BUas, he had few expectations of Breda. But that is precisely why the city surprised him all the more. "Breda feels like a big village. You walk through the city centre and you always bump into someone you know. That ‘we-know-each-other’ feeling is really special. It makes you feel at home quickly, even if you're not originally from Breda."

After his first degree, he continued his path in Tilburg, but his life still mainly revolved around Breda.

Favorite places & student memories

Ask Thomas about his favourite spot in the city and his eyes light up: Valkenberg park.
“It always had a lovely atmosphere there. Especially in summer with events like Parkies or just relaxing at T-huis. During lockdown, we even had some spontaneous parties there. And of course Pier15, on warm days that was really the place to hang out.”

He often went out at Dok or Peddels, though he nostalgically recalls Café de Kater, which no longer exists. “That used to be our regular spot.”

He would have lunch or eat with friends wherever it was cosy: Beers & Barrels was a favourite, but nowadays he mainly recommends local places such as Sip First, Locale, Echt Brood, Reparola and Chatwick. “There are so many great new places that have opened in recent years.” For peace and relaxation, he turns to nature: “A walk through the Markdal or the Mastbos always works. A break from the hustle and bustle, and then you can continue feeling refreshed.”

student sitting on a little chair in Valkenberg Park

Breda like you've never seen it before

According to Thomas, there are places in Breda that often stay under the radar. “The T-huis is really one of those places that people underestimate. Nice atmosphere, beautiful location, relaxed evenings. And also Brouwcafé Frontaal, a must for beer enthusiasts.”

Events that are inextricably linked to his student days? He doesn't need to think long about that.
“538 Kings Day, Ploegendienst, Tuesday evenings with the Jongens van Je Weet Wel, specialty beer evenings, or a sunny day at STRND. Breda has something for every mood.”

His most beautiful memory? “Breda Jazz Festival. Even if you don’t like jazz, you’ll have a fantastic day. The whole city comes alive and you feel part of something bigger.”

View all festivals in Breda here

Thomas's tips for (future) students

When you just start in Breda, there is a good chance you might be overwhelmed by all the options. That’s why Thomas gladly shares his personal top recommendations:

Must-visits according to Thomas:

Bay, for lounging by the water

Sip First, top coffee and atmosphere

Kamu, bikes, coffee, and community

Pier15, as long as it’s still possible (!), a unique skate and cultural hub

Willy’s, for the tastiest snack after a night out

Locale for genuine Italian sandwiches and good conversations
Klubcafé, to discover local DJs

Blind Walls Gallery, street art that lets you see the city differently

For Thomas, it’s clear what makes Breda special: “It’s a city with the charm of a village. Everything is close by, people are friendly, and it’s never boring. Once you settle here, you don’t really want to leave.”