Experience in London, United Kingdom by Gen

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

London is a very busy, fast-paced city with many many things to offer for tourists and students. I have studied in London for almost 2 years now and I have found that there is always something new to discover! There are new art exhibitions, parties and events everyday. London knows how to celebrate everything!

The culture here is extremely accepting and diverse. There is no "uniform". Everyone looks, sounds and acts different and that is a good thing.

It definitely isn't a place for those who prefer a quiet lifestyle and the countryside -- The only negatives are the prices (accommodation and travel being the worst), the dirt (pollution and trash are a problem here) and the famous London manners.

What is the student lifestyle like in London?

Being a student in London is very exciting. There is always something to do for free or at a student discount, from club events to museum/gallery shows and new restaurants to try. I don't drink so I don't know a lot about nightlife except that the queer scene is big here. Soho is fun!

There is plenty to do for drinkers and non-drinkers. Every university has a student union with societies for meeting new friends. They also arrange trips around London or out of London.

How much does it cost to live in London?

It is very expensive to live in London, especially the centre. Living in zone 1 can be around £ 300 per week. I pay close to £ 200 per week in zone 2 (North London) but I still have to spend £ 5 a day to get into university on the tube. You can save money by living closer to the centre as you won't need to pay so much for travel but the price of a room gets higher (you'll have to work out which is cheaper).

Grocery prices are the same but eating out is more expensive in London than the rest of England. A standard meal (not fast food) is around £10 and hot drinks are often £3-5. Alcohol is meant to be very expensive here.

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

It can be very difficult to find a reliable private accommodation. I would recommend applying for a room in student halls simply because there is someone to contact if you have any problems. Be careful that you aren't a victim of fraud or a crappy landlord.

I would highly recommend Unite Students! They look after the properties really well, maintenance is great, facilities are great and if you have any problems they sort it out right away. They are highly regarded and trustworthy.

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

I am vegetarian and I can easily find food anywhere in London. I have a lot of vegan friends who find it really easy too! London caters for all dietary requirements and tastes from afternoon tea to fast food.

The cultures are very diverse. You'll be able to find anything in the world here!

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What places would you recommend visiting in London?

I am an art student so I would say you have to visit the Victoria & Albert Museum, Tate Modern, the British Museum, Tate Britain, the National Gallery, the Portrait Gallery and the House of Illustration.

The best places for unique/vintage/boutique shops in central London are Neal's Yard, the Seven Dials, Brick Lane and Camden. For high street shopping there is obviously Oxford Street, Regents Street and Carnaby Street.

For nature and greenery: Hyde Park has galleries, a boating lake and Kensington Palace which is where Will & Kate live. Regents Park has a zoo and rose garden. Hampstead Heath is slightly further out but it is more like real nature than the other parks, and it has Kenwood House which is a beautiful stately home.

Theatre is big in London. If you have the chance then go to the ticket stalls to get discounted tickets!

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

My favourite veggie restaurants are Mildreds in Soho and Camden, and Muriel's Kitchen in South Kensington.

There is a brilliant Indian tapas-style restaurant called Dishoom in Granary Square, Kings Cross.

There are also food markets dotted all over the city. I would recommend Spitalfields, Borough and Camden Markets.

What advice would you give future students heading to London?

My advice is to find somewhere nice to live that doesn't require too much travel to your university. It takes away a lot of stress if you pay slightly more for somewhere safe and reliable. Try well-known and well-reviewed student halls.

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