Erasmus Experience in London, UK
Translated by 
Daniela Baker
— 7 years ago
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Tags: Erasmus experiences London,
London,
United Kingdom
Why did you choose to go to London, United Kingdom?
So, I am in love with London, for various reasons, and I had been to the city before, so I was certain that it would be a place I'd like.
London, United Kingdom
Also, because of the possibility that it will be able to expose you to many different cultures which co-exist within the same city. London's music variety was another one of the key reasons.
A music event in London
From a professional point of view, it's a city in which you continue to learn and grow.
How long was the scholarship? How much money did you receive?
In my case the grant was about 500 euros a month. But people who did it through Leonardo received more money per month.
Carnaby Street, London
What is the student life like in London?
The student scene London is very varied. Students from all countries, rich, less rich, poor, interns, non-interns, adventurers, white, black, green or lilac... On the same day you can meet someone who worked their socks off studying in order to gain a scholarship who got to where they are through blood, sweat and tears... and then a few hours later meet a guy who paid an absolute fortune to bring his car over from his home country just because it's cool to have a number plate in Arabic letters.
Students in London
In my case I was more in touch with professionals but the people I met were mostly graduate students from the world of business and marketing.
Would you recommend the city and the University of London to other students?
In fact, I believe everyone should spend some time in London.
My Erasmus experience was doing an internship so I found myself in a more professional yet student-y atmosphere. London has something for every budget.
What is the country's food like?
English food is not the city's strong point. English desserts, however, are. If you have a sweet tooth, you will love sticky toffee pudding or any pie.
Sticky Toffee Pudding
The good thing is that you can eat in a Lebanese restaurant, have dinner in a Portuguese place, next day go to for a Japanese or Turkish and everything is close by.
Food in a Lebanese restaurant in London
Another very good option are the markets, which are situated in different areas of the city and offer you the chance to buy food at reasonable prices.
It seems that the food in the UK is not as bad as they say, tradition has simply been lost. I once had the opportunity to try such dishes. You know, the food that a grandmother typically makes. But you have to find the right people and the right place. I was lucky!
How did you find accommodation?
In order to find accommodation there are various resources online. Such as:
Finding accommodation in London can be a complicated process. Check the contract before signing and make sure you deal with someone you trust. There's a lot of scams out there.
I was fortunate enough to find a very good Spanish guy named Oscar who you can find here:
This is what I recommend for everyone coming to London who wants to flatshare.
Finding accommodation in London can be difficult
What are the rent prices like? And the general cost of living?
Accommodation in London is expensive and if a place is very cheap it is either not worth it or it is a scam. Always keep this in mind or you will end up regretting signing for a place. I say this from experience.
What is the language like? Did you do a course at your university?
The language didn't pose much of an issue, also when in London I met Spanish speakers.
Yes, there was an English course with a focus on Business.
What is the cheapest way of getting to London from your city?
As everyone knows: Ryanair, Easyjet and Monarch.
From the UK to the European continent there are cheap ferries with 'Stenaline', which includes train tickets from the ferry ports. You can travel to Amsterdam, go to a party and then return.
If you want to go skiing there is a train which takes you up to the Alps. But this is better for a four-day weekend.
St Pancras train station has international connections
What places would you recommend for a night out in London?
That's a complicated question. London has everything. So it depends on what kind of person you are and what you like.
My favourite place is Bricklane, the concerts in 1001, a small place called Pangea Project and the numerous pubs with live music.
Brick Lane by day
What about eating out in London? What are your favourite places?
Hmmm, I have loads of favourite places.
Root Master - Vegan café in Bricklane.
Without a doubt do not forget to take a trip to Borough Market one Saturday morning.
Borough Market
What about for a cultural visit?
As for visiting London, it is fine, but when living in London, you get to discover more every day and with each day you will fall more in love with the city.
You will grow up and learn from other cultures sharing a Hanukkah, Diwali or Chinese New Year and you will realize that Christmas is just another holiday among many others that are equally or more fun.
Celebrations for Chinese new year in the city
An event to celebrate Diwali in London
As for museums, almost all of them are free, so do not miss even one. Start with the Tate Gallery.
The Tate Modern
The science museum in London
Any advice for students coming to London?
It's a tough but exciting city. As two good friends said to me: 'This city gives you the best of it to a point when it creates an addiction'.
Distance yourself from students of your own country, integrate with those from other countries and with British people. Do this so as not to miss out on the full experience.
Lastly: London is expensive. Do not go back on yourself, accept it as fact. You will be happier.
Accept that London is expensive
London is very varied
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