Experience in London, United Kingdom by Gabriela

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

I have lived in London for 12 years and I'm not going to lie-it is expensive to live there. It is also little sad at some times because of the sun deficiency but if you are a student with many friends you won't even notice it. I had the best times when I was in my twenties and would recommend it to everyone to study in London. It is hard but then that is everywhere in the world when you are a student. The benefits of living there besides great party and entertainment life is that you can find a job very easily. There are countless opportunities especially for students. And these days you can also find cheaper accommodation or live with your friends which comes cheaper. Go and explore London.

What is the student lifestyle like in London?

Students are pretty much like everywhere else. They are young (or young in heart:) and try their best. Some are studying more than others but most of the universities have paper based exams which is different Slovakia where you have to actually memorize a lot of study materials to present it in front of the tutor. There are many opportunities to party as every club/bar/pub have a special student nights so if you're into party scene you can party every day. And it is also multicultural I have had friends from all over the world. Amazing!

How much does it cost to live in London?

That depends on the area you live in and also the university fees and your expenses. But renting a room could be anywhere between 300-600 per room per month. Again it is cheaper to get together with friends and rent a house/apartment. Also the transport fees are getting up every 6 months so by now it is 1. 60 on the oyster card.

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

It is not difficult to find an accommodation but that also depends if you're high maintenance and require something more luxurious or you prefer something simple where you can sleep and study cause rest of the time you're out with your friends or at the university. Online resources, adverts on the shop windows, local newspapers.

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

The food is versatile to certain areas of London. In the west-Southall- there is middle east area so you can find a lot of their food which is delicious:) In china town in the city you can find authentic chinese cousine and so on. But in general you get every possible cousine from around the world- Indian, Japanese, Middle East, Lebanese you name it London has got it.

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What places would you recommend visiting in London?

There is quiet few but generally depends what you are looking for. My favorite area to live in was Wimbledon and my favorite place to go to was National Gallery. My favourite pub/bar was The Slug and Suburban in Wimbledon.

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

It is amazing to eat out in London. You have really fancy places like The Shard if you have little money but you can definitely eat on budget. My favorite spot was the market in Camden Town where you can get chinese, pizza or anything really cheap.

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

Nightlife in London is superb. I have had the best times when I was living there. It is very diverse. Whether you are into RnB, House, Techno or Pop culture you can find it in London. The party scene is neverending and you would have to go out at least every weekend to explore all of it.

What advice would you give future students heading to London?

Go for it. You will have the time of your life. Be sensibl with the money and you can have amazing experience. Get to know as many people as possible, don't be shy. It's all about who you know and the more contacts you make the more opportunities you'll get:))) Good luck and enjoy.