Carla's Erasmus Experience in London, UK

Why did you choose to go to London, UK?

It's a city that the whole world talks about and when I was offered the opportunity I couldn't afford to miss it. So I decided to come and see it with my own eyes.

How much was your grant? How much money did you receive for support?

I stayed in London for three months. I received €3, 500 but everyone receives a different amount and I'm not entirely sure what it's based on.

What's the student lifestyle like in London?

There are lots of different types of people, so if you don't feel comfortable in one group of people it's very easy to change groups. It's very enriching to come and study here because not only do you learn a language and study, but you also get to learn about new cultures and other types of people outside your comfort zone.

Would you recommend the city and the University of London to other students?

Of course, I would yes! It is without a doubt something that everyone should do. I was only going to stay here for three months and here I am 10 months later.

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What's the country's food like?

Honestly, it's not something that catches my eye. The good thing is that you have all kinds of restaurants and different international cuisines, but English food doesn't appeal to me. The fish and chips aren't as amazing as you would think from what people say about it.

Was it difficult for you to find accommodation in London?

Not me, but of course, everything depends on your budget and if you are fussy. But there are lots of options, lots of rooms to rent, etc. Of course, you have to be patient and do a lot of looking and searching, and make sure not to settle for the first one you see because sometimes there are very good offers around.

How much does it cost to live in London?

The food depends on where you buy it from, some supermarkets are more expensive than others.

It's impossible to rent a house for you alone so you would have to rent a room. Normally you can't get a room for cheaper than £450, but it's all about looking for the best one for you.

Transport is expensive (although not the bus), so if you can get a house near to where you are going to study or work it would be great because you could cycle or walk there and it would save you money.

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What's the language like? Did you go on a course at the University?

I know the language quite well. I came to London with a level A2 - B1 of English and now I think I've improved it to a B2 - C1. When you're studying in English, speaking in English, reading signs in English, listening to English... you're improving all the time even if you don't realise it.

What's the cheapest way to get to London from your hometown?

I'm from Valencia so I usually fly (with Ryanair normally) to Stansted (it's one of the 5 London airports, one of the cheapest and furthest out from the centre). There's a bus station at the airport so it's best to take the National Express (the name of the company). There are different routes so you can take the bus that suits you best (a one-way ticket usually costs around £9-£12). This option is cheaper than the train.

Which places would you recommend for nightlife in London?

Well here, all London parties end at 3 (it's one of the things I hate the most) so I usually go to Latin nightclubs because I like the music and they also tend to last longer. Anyway, there are lots of different types of pubs to go to with different music, atmosphere etc...

I would say that the best party areas are Camden and Soho.

What about eating out in London? What are your favourite places?

To tell you the truth I don't have any favourite places.

But you always have to pay attention to the price quality. I usually go to Latin restaurants, they have great food that fills you up and it's usually pretty cheap.

What about sightseeing?

It's one of the best cities for sightseeing. But if you really want to see and understand the culture, it's best to stay here for a couple of months.

There are people from all over the world here so you can always learn from them but you will come to learn about everything in time.

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Do you have any advice for future students in London?

Don't be afraid or embarrassed about speaking the language. You have to make mistakes to learn. At first, I'm sure you'll start to surround yourself with Spanish people but little by little try to meet other people so you can speak English and gain some freedom. Once you've done it you'll only want more and more! You'll want to meet more people and even learn another language. That's what happened to me.

Good luck!