Erasmus Experience in London, United Kingdom by Desiree

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

Mainly for the English language, to finally get really good at it and to get an understanding of the businessworld in Londen.

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

It was 6 months, I received a monthly allowance of 250 pounds

What is the student lifestyle like in London?

I was never really a student there, because my internship required me to work 40 hours a week, but the weekend I would meet with other students in pubs etc.

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

YES! it's too bad the city is very expensive, living, groceries, going out, but Londen has sooooo much to offer. Museums, pubs, architecture.

What is the food like?

Its not my favorite, very greasy and a lot of sausages, beans etc

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in London?

No I found my room through a website called gumtree... very usefull loads of rooms/apartments

How much does it cost to live in London?

350 pounds per month +/- I was living with a lovely lady and her 16 year old soon. I got my own room, and we shared the living room/bathroom and kitchen.
This was the cheapest option for me.
Other (solo) places I visited were 150 pounds a WEEK!

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

I'm Dutch :) so we learn English at a very young age. for me it was not a problem however obviously they have their own accents etc. I'm sure language courses will be available

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to London from your city?

By plane, Ryanair (very cheap) and they by bus to the city centre of Londen. (also very easy)

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

My roommate took me to places and we stayed near the place we lived which was in Streatham... It's a lovely pub called the Whitehorse nice atmosphere , nice music small dancing area.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in London?

Dont know the name but there's a lovely chique Italian place near Trafalgar Square

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Tate modern! and the classical version of Tate!
Walk along the Thames! Loved that loads of streetartist and bookmarkets
The londen eye, Buckingham palace, hyde park!

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to London in the future?

Enjoy! Take a busride which shows you the entire city and go of exploring.
Londen is great during Christmas periode but also in the summer the weather can be great!
Also try to visit the surrounding cities in the weekend like oxford, brighton etc.