At Gare de l'Est, take a direct train to Metz. Cheaper fairs available using a Eurail pass. A train inside the airport terminal goes to the main railway station in Brussels Bruxelles Midi. Railroad connection to these cities and airports is easy, and frequency of trains makes these airports very convenient destinations. In Metz, an extensive bus system allows easy travel to anywhere in town.
Many students like to buy or bring bicycles to add more freedom to their excursions.
Cabs are available outside the train station. If you are carrying a lot of luggage, this will be money well spent. Be sure the taxi takes you directly to your residence rather than coming to GTL, so that you won't have to carry your luggage the rest of the distance. This line usually does not run during the French summer vacation, from around the end of June until the middle of September. GTL is the Second building on the right on rue Marconi.