Hello,
If I were you, I would definitely choose VU University Amsterdam. Simply, Amsterdam city is so vibrant and beautiful.
It ranks 179 on QS World University Rankings, whereas the University of Essex is just on 315.
Although Social Sciences for the University of Essex is higher. It ranks 77, whilst VU University Amsterdam is on 130.
So, yes, it's really difficult to decide just now. The best thing is to wait till UBC.
Best Wishes!