Experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom by Esther

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What is it like to live in Edinburgh? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Edinburgh is my ideal city. It's small enough that you can walk everywhere, but so cultural and diverse that you are never bored. There is always something out of the ordinary going on and its sheer beauty means that even when it is cold and windy, i still enjoy a walk to the other side of the city or even just a stroll down the Royal Mile. I also love that you have the mountain and the sea within a capital city, you can walk from the city centre and be up a mountain viewing where you have just been within an hour! I would recommend Edinburgh to anyone.

What is the student lifestyle like in Edinburgh?

Student life in Edinburgh is honestly amazing. Whether it's the catered Pollock Halls of first year, where you have a great community of around 2000 students who party a lot and by the end of the year know everyone, or Marchmont or New Town, both beautiful areas with a great standard of accommodation. There are some great student cafes, bars and club nights, as well as higher-end eats and bars to appeal to all price ranges.

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How much does it cost to live in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is quite an expensive city, as it is the capital of Scotland and an attractive place to live. However, it can be done on a student budget. Accommodation is at the higher end of the price scale but student nights mean it is easily done on a budget. Moreover, you don't need to use public transport, since you can easily walk or cycle everywhere, which saves a lot of money.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Edinburgh? Is there any advice you can give?

I would recommend catered halls for first year to anyone, purely because you get to meet so many people, and have a lot of fun. However, self catered does usually work out a lot cheaper. When you move into flats, I would advise to take the first flat you find that you like. Besides, smaller numbers are better. There is only one 9 man flat, I don't know of any 8s, and only a couple of 7s. 6's are highly sort, so I would advise going into 5's and 4's to give the most ease.

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What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is very diverse. There a 4 or 5 Michelin star restaurants, and many equally as good but for a lot cheaper! Within a 5/10 minute walk of the University there are hundreds of great cheap places to eat, ranging from Thai, Indian, American and even Ethiopian. One of my favourite places to eat is a Brazilian street food shack at the top of The Meadows Walk, about a two minute walk from the University's George Square, they serve the most amazing gluten free crepes, I haven't met anyone who doesn't love them. Another great places is Caravan, a Thai restaurant opposite the University, good value for money, and always delicious.

What places would you recommend visiting in Edinburgh?

The whole city is worth seeing so its hard to narrow them down, but i would definitely suggest walking up Arthur's seat or the Crags, it doesn't take long and you have incredible views of the city. If you want less of a walk, Carlton Hill is in the city centre and gives equally good views. Princess Street and George street have really good shopping opportunities, as well as some really good cocktail bars. The Royal Mile is very touristy, but there are some amazing restaurants down the tiny side streets. Grassmarket has a lovely market at the weekend and great views of the Castle above (however, if you are a student, you shouldn't visit the Castle until you graduate! ).

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Is it good to eat out in Edinburgh? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Yes, some great cheap student spots! Caravan, Teviot Library Bar, Soder Berg, City Cafe and Bodingtons are great reasonable eats. And if you can afford something a little more, Howies, Maison Blue, Red Squirrel and Mussel and Steak bar are really good, there are so many its hard to remember!

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Is the nightlife good in Edinburgh? Where is good to go?

I love going out in Edinburgh (to be honest, I go out a little too often). The Cowgate is my favourite area to go out in, Sneaky Petes is my favourite club, this tiny venue is great every night of the weekend, and if you go with more the 20 people, you will pretty much fill the club! It's also free during the week which is a great incentive. The Liquid Room is a really good venue to see any Dj's or Artists that play in the city. Heading over to Newtown, WhyNot on a Monday is always full of students, as well at Opal Lounge of Wednesdays and Thursdays.

What advice would you give future students heading to Edinburgh?

Join societies! There are hundreds and they're a great way to meet people. Sports teams also have a really good social life. Also, take advantage of the Universities great facilities and events they put on, I've been to some really good educational talks on subjects I'd otherwise have no idea about. Also keep updated on the events and shows going on, it really is a very cultural city - the galleries are always worth visiting on a rainy day, and the student performed comedy is definitely a must see!

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