“I live in the city centre, near the University Library, and I’m working on my PhD at SBE. This side of the city is all about working and living. It’s historic, even a bit romantic. But the moment I cycle across the Hoge Brug, something changes. The bridge always feels like a turning point. It reminds me that Maastricht is a city of many faces. The bridge itself is sleek and modern, completely different from the narrow, winding streets of the city centre. In a way, it reminds me of Frankfurt, where I’m from. It gives me space to think.
“I often cross the bridge on my way to the train station, like when I’m heading to Germany to visit family and friends. That moment already puts me in a good mood. I’m quite an active person – I cycle to UM Sports after work or start my mornings swimming laps at Geusseltbad. I’m usually there by 7 a.m., cycling across the bridge when the city is still quiet. That early-morning atmosphere feels almost magical. The way back is special, too. Just recently, I returned from a holiday to Fuerteventura. As I walked across the bridge, I saw the city lights and a few people strolling by. The moment instantly brought back that distinctive Maastricht feeling – a relaxed, almost cinematic vibe.
“Before I moved here, my life was in Frankfurt. I was a real finance bro, climbing the career ladder in asset management at a German bank. Everything revolved around money, bonuses, the next promotion. I lived a materialistic life, buying things that didn’t really mean much to me. After ten years, I asked myself, ‘Is this what I really want?’ Since starting my PhD here, I’ve been focused on my own project, rather than one tied to clients or colleagues.
“And that question – ‘Is this what I really want?’ – is something I keep asking myself. We all meet the same fate in the end, so you have to make good use of your time. For me, the bridge is a place to pause and reflect. Of course, I look forward to the destination – a swim or a trip – but I enjoy the journey just as much. By the way, my first memory of the bridge is priceless. Years ago, when I was here for my master’s, I crossed it for the first time with friends, slightly tipsy after an all-you-can-drink event. Our bikes got stuck on the stairs, and we fell over. Anyone who knows those stairs knows what I mean – the spacing between the steps is awkward. Do you take them one at a time or two? Even now, I still laugh every time I push my bike up – it’s always a bit tricky.”
In this weekly series, Observant asks students about their favourite spot in Maastricht.