Experience in London, United Kingdom by Mia

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

London is a fantastic, young and vibrant city for students. Having lived there my whole life, I can safely say London is the perfect place to be for many. I've never failed to find something to do, from more educational/enriching activities to nightlife. The city is inviting and busy, the people also. I highly recommend spending time in London if you have an interest.

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What is the student lifestyle like in London?

Student lifestyle in London at a first glance isn't as happening as cities outside London. Student community tends to get lost in its vastness. However, if you go to the right places, London can be great for students and just as cheap.

How much does it cost to live in London?

London is as expensive as you choose it to be. If you're privy to more disposable money then London can be expensive. However, there are many places that don't break the bank and can be (biased opinion) signifcantly more fun, multicultural and representative of the true London feel. Upcoming areas which are predominantly student areas with great bars and late nights tend to be Peckham, Camberwell, Dalson, Bethnal Green, Stoke Newington, to name a few. These areas will require you to spend around £500-700 per month on rent and you'll be spending less on drinking and going out.

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

It isn't difficult to find places in London but it is a fast paced rental system. Therefore, it's very likely that something you come across is unavailable the following day. I highly recommend organsing a viewing as soon as possible and should you like the accommodation enough (asking all the right questions; deposit, electricity, gas, wifi, rules, neighbours) then I suggest make your decision shortly after seeing a couple others at the latest.

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

I have an NUS card with a Gourmet Society addition which is perfect. It gives me money off meals throughout London. My favourite place however, doesn't accept this but is cheap enough. Franco Manca, which has restaurants throughout the city. They are a pizza restaurant that cook with sourdough bread at really student friendly prices.

What places would you recommend visiting in London?

• Franco Manca
• Efe's - crazy golf Dalston
• Kick - table football and cocktails in Shoreditch
• The Nest or Birthdays - Dalston
• Speakeasy's in East London give the experience of going into secretly located bars!

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

Franco Manca is a favourite.

With NUS you can find places which have good meal deals on them.

Gourmet Burger and Dirty Burger (Kentish Town)

I also recommend Pizza East, in which you can go in and ask for a key ring - this gives you 50% off food and drink on specific days for various chains!

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

Nightlife is great. I prefer the east London side. Dalston, Shoreditch, Hackney.

What advice would you give future students heading to London?

London may be daunting but getting the swing of it is fast and easy. The underground is a lot simpler than what it may first seem.