Experience in London, United Kingdom by Catarina

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

I would definitely recommend London. It has something to offer for everyone, whatever the lifestyle a person may want. The city is amazing, lively, dynamic, cosmopolitan, fast-paced and complete.

What is the student lifestyle like in London?

London has several universities, full of students coming from all over the world. Due to this, student lifestyle is very active, full of activities promoted by the universities, students' unions, etc. We get the best conditions to study and to be at our best academically, while at the same time being able to profit from everything else the city has to offer: culture, fun, etc.

How much does it cost to live in London?

London is a very expensive city, especially for students who usually live on a shoestring. Accommodation is quite expensive, as is eating out or going out. Supermarket prices are ok.

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

It depends on our budget. Often students and people with a low budget have to look for accommodation in areas further away from the central zone of London. Searching in advance, trying to get help from friends or other students who are already living in London. Beware that the price of the rents in London is usually mentioned per week, and not a monthly rent. Student dorms and other residences are a good option for students, generally cheaper than private accommodation and usually well and centrally located.

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

Apart from the traditional "fish and chips" I don't know much about London/UK food. The good thing is that we can choose from a huge variety of food from all over the world, as there are restaurants, kiosks, food markets all over London.

What places would you recommend visiting in London?

It is difficult to recommend specific places, since I find the whole city amazing and a place of interest in itself. But of course the parks are mandatory: Hyde Park, St. James' Park, Regent's Park and Primrose hill.

The whole area close to the river:

• From Westminster to the Southbank, to the Tower of London
• The City
• The northern part of the London with Camden Market

And also other markets in other parts of the city: Brick Lane, Portobello, etc. The whole theatreland in the West End area and of course the museums. Most museums are free in London and they are amazing and really worth visiting. The must see for me are:

• The British Museum,
• Natural History Museum,
• Science Museum,
• V&A Museum,
• Tate Modern,
• Imperial War Museum,
• National Gallery,
• Tate Britain.

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

I do not have any favourite spots. Eating out in London is expensive but it is good since there is a huge amount to different places to choose from.

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

Nightlife is said to be great. You can choose (depending on your budget) from poshy places around Leicester Sq. and Picaddilly to more alternative ones in areas like Camden. For those who prefer it, the cultural offer in London is also very rich, with all the theatres and musical theatre plays playing everyday. There are also all sorts of concerts on a regular basis.

What advice would you give future students headed to London?

London is undoubtedly one of the most amazing cities in the world, so make the most of your time there. Get immersed in the city and in its culture, and you'll certainly be a different person by the time you leave it.

"When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life. " Samuel Johnson