Erasmus Experience in London, United Kingdom by Aida

Why did you choose to go to London, United Kingdom?

I fell in love with London when I was 16 years old and I have always wanted to live here.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help with living costs?

I get an embarrassing sum of 2, 000 euros for the 9 month stay.

What is the student lifestyle like in London?

In Imperial College it's great, practically everyone helps you and are nice to you. Many are interested in how you're getting along and if you're comfortable. I've no complaints.

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

Of course. I would 100% recommend the experience. You just have to be aware that it's very expensive, the standard of living is really high. I'm working as a childminder to be able to afford everything.

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What is the food like?

Terrible, it's what I miss most about Spain, both the food and the hours haha. But you can survive.

Was it hard to find accommodation in London?

No, because I asked for accommodation from the Imperial, in which you can only stay for your first year at this Uni.

How much does it cost to live in London?

A little more than 1, 000 euros a month.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Did you attend a course at the university?

I was working on the language at home, but the truth is there aren't many people from the United Kingdom to be honest, so we are all in the same boat and we respect each other and make an effort to understand each other.

What is the easiest or most economic way to get to London from your city?

Take a plane in advance or when they're on offer. Besides, from my home city my parents have to go and collect me from a larger city than the surrounding ones.

Where would you recommend to go for a night out in London?

To be honest, none. I would recommend that people get into having their own parties and take advantage of the Uni bars and the offers in the supermarkets (here 70% of what you pay for a bottle of alcohol is taxes).

And for eating in London? Could you mention your favourite places?

Takeaway food from the supermarkets are quick and even cheaper than cooking, people here have a really high pace of life. I still haven't been able to go to a single restaurant here myself because I can't allow myself to, and the ones I have gone to were paid for me, so I can't really help much here...

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And as a cultural visit?

Amazing. All the museums are free, one day a month (different for every museum) they open at night (afternoon-night for others) with special events. Besides, to go for a walk at any moment in the year is amazing, it's a really charming city.

Is there any advice you would like to give to future students in London?

Look for a job and save a lot because London is really worth it, but you can only enjoy it fully if you have savings to be honest.