Experience in London, United Kingdom by Jamie

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

I have lived in London since I was very little. It is an awesome city so I recommend that everyone visits and/or lives there at least once. London is a busy city with lots going on all of the time. London is full of history and culture and isn't too big. London's weather often defies the stereotype of being foggy and rivals any city in the summer for good weather.

What is the student lifestyle like in London?

Student lifestyle in London is unlike any other city that I've studied in. There aren't lots of cheap places to go but it is very easy going and fun. Get onto Facebook to find all the student-based events and cheap deals on nights out, food etc.

How much does it cost to live in London?

London is one of the more expensive cities to live in but it is also possible to find cheap deals if you want to.

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

It is very hard and expensive to live in the centre of London but east and south London are good for low prices. Try to find a place near a metro (tube) station so that it's easy to get into the city. Either go for student accommodation associated to the universities or look for places that are on reputable websites so that you definitely get what you want.

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

I love London because you can find food from almost any country in the world to a high standard. I love getting mediterranean cuisine but the best cheap food mostly comes from the Caribbean and North Africa.

What places would you recommend visiting in London?

There are so many wonderful places in London to visit that I can't mention them all but I'll try. You have to visit London's wealth of parks with Hyde Park, Regent's Park and St James' Park.

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London has plenty of free museums so you don't need to do Madame Tussauds. Go and see the Tate Modern and the Tate Britain for art, the Natural History Museum is my favourite museum in London and it always has new things on.

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Obviously, you have to visit the West End for the theatres, Carnaby Street, Mayfair, Leicester Square, Selfridges, Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus and Harrod's. The best way to see all of the major sights in London is to do the open-top bus tour for about £22. If you're interested in politics then organise a visit to the houses of parliament.

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If you like architecture then you only need to look up as you go through central London. My favourite place to be for architecture is in the financial area so around the Natwest building, St Paul's Cathedral and the Gherkin or go over to Canary Wharf. Also, go and visit all of the wonderful markets like Leadenhall, Spitalfields, Billingsgate, Smithfield, Shepherd's Bush and Camden.

That is just a handful of places to visit but as you go along you will find places that you like. It's a small capital city but also one of the most diverse for having cheap and free things to do. However, if you decide you want to spend a few extra quid (pounds) then you can also find fantastic shops, restaurants and exciting things to do.

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

London has the best food in Britain and you can get some that is cheap, some that's expensive and the rest is reasonably priced. I like to go out occasionally and spend more rather than go out a lot and spend less per meal. Raoul's cafe in Maida Vale is great for the Shish Raoul's. Fino's in Charlotte Street does amazing tapas. Cheaper places that do good food are Japanese takeaways, Mulberry Street pizzas are delicious and well-priced. The best thing to do is to look around for places near to you and you are guaranteed to find something you like for a price that you like.

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

London nightlife is really good and you will find great bars, pubs and nightclubs that will suit your tastes. I like to start drinking at the Churchill Arms or the Belgravia then move onto a bar which varies depending on the nightclub. My two favourite clubs are Fabric and Boujis but I recommend choosing your club on the type of music that you like as well as the price.

What advice would you give future students heading to London?

Do some research on finding a place to live and don't make any commitments until you have arrived. Some people do get asked for money before they arrive and sometimes don't get anything for it.

Make the most of your time in London as it is wonderful and it is great for young people.