Experience in Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom by Rita

What is it like to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Living in Newcastle is amusing. It doesn't matter what is the season or the weather you will always see the very typical geordie boys and girls dressed as it is summer in Brazil and ready to drink until they can't stand up. Every day of the week you can party in the many many different clubs and pubs. Boys, be careful and make sure you know the real age of the girls you are flirting with - ages between 14 and 30 are indistinguishable underneath all the make up. Girls, expect mainly man full of muscles addicted to protein shakes.
It is the driest city of the UK so it barely rains. When it snows in the winter the city is very beautiful but all the public transports shut down (even with 2 cm of snow).
The Sage is a beautiful venue with a wide cultural offer.

How much does it cost to live in Newcastle Upon Tyne?

Rent is normally between 250 - 400 pounds.
You need at least 400 pounds on top of that to survive.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Newcastle Upon Tyne? Is there any advice you can give?

It is not difficult because there are many offers for all the students that live in the city. Whatever you do, stay away from the Groves agency - they just want your money and will never take care of your needs. Always make sure you report anything that is broken or not working when you move in because the agencies will try to blame you for everything.

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

Favourite dish: English breakfast when hangover.
Anything with stuffing or custard is also to die for.

What places would you recommend visiting in Newcastle Upon Tyne?

The quayside when it is reasonable weather - having a walk by the Tyne and admire the 7 bridges can be very pleasant.
Tynemouth is great for a walk by the sea having some fish and ships. It is just 15 minutes away by metro from the centre.
The Jesmond Dene is a beautiful big park for walks and pic nics.
The Tyneside Cinema is a lovely place with a broader range of movie genre to choose from. Sometimes they screen movies in their lovely cafe.
When it snows you can join the locals and go sledging in the hill of the Town Moor - it is very fun!

Is it good to eat out in Newcastle Upon Tyne? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Butterfly cabinet has the best comfort food. The portions are gigantic.
Fat Hippo in Jesmond also has nice burgers.
In china town you can find all-you-can-eat chinese buffets for 10 pounds that are nice.

Is the nightlife good in Newcastle Upon Tyne? Where is good to go?

The Gate area is drunkness to the maximum and many times fights happen. It is better to stay near the Grey Street.
My favourite places are World Head Quarters, Head of Steam, Bar Loco and Tyne Bar. Also, Power House is a gay club that offers a crazy and fun night until late.
Most of the pubs shut down around 2. Very few clubs are open until 4/5. Anything beyond that is the Casino (open 24 hours) or the strip clubs.

What advice would you give future students heading to Newcastle Upon Tyne?

Look for a place with all bills included. Electricity/gas bills can suck all your money out unexpectedly in the winter months. And then there is also the council tax! It is better to know with how much you can count on each month.
Drink at home before you go out.
If money is a problem choose to live in Heaton or Fenham. These areas have an unfair reputation to be dangerous. There is no real danger in the UK, those areas are just fine!