Studying in London is a hugely exciting prospect; the city is bursting with culture and adventure and is just waiting to be explored. Despite its many positive factors it’s no secret that London is one of the world’s most expensive cities, and living there as a student is no mean feat.
To help you on your way to a budget-friendly city lifestyle, here are a few top tips that are sure to come in useful for anyone studying in the Big Smoke.
Find Free Attractions
Like any city, many attractions in London are extortionate. However, there’s no need to sacrifice your fun – if you look hard enough, there are some brilliant things to do around the area that don’t cost a penny.
Why not head to a museum or art gallery? There are plenty to choose from, and it’s a fantastic way to expand your knowledge about your new home. Enjoy the contemporary art at the Tate Modern or admire historic artefacts from all over the world at the British Museum. Art fans will also appreciate the astonishing street art trails that you can follow around Shoreditch and Camden Town.
For those who need a break from the bustling streets, the Sky Garden is the perfect place to spend the afternoon. Admire the fantastic views from the observation deck and enjoy three storeys of landscaped public gardens.
If you love nature, a stroll around London’s parks will certainly take your fancy – Greenwich is a particularly beautiful spot and has its own deer park, boating lake and tennis courts.
Be a Frugal Foodie
It’s easy to fall into the trap of spending too much money on food, but if you stop and think, there are several ways in which you can cut costs without having to starve yourself.
Avoid spending cash at a pricey food chain during your busy day at university or college and make your own lunch at home. This is an easy solution and in the long-run will save you a lot of money. You can also suggest dinner parties with your friends rather than eating out together.
Buying your food from low-cost supermarkets or local food markets is another helpful tip for cheaper living – you might be surprised at the bargains on offer.
Cheaper Accommodation Is Possible…
London student accommodation is never going to be inexpensive, but there are a few options that might be slightly more economical.
Choosing a flat share or a homestay can often work out cheaper than university halls of residence, however transport costs also require consideration. In London, student accommodation closer to the centre will significantly reduce travel prices (and times) whereas living in zones further away could cause you to spend more.
Making sure you undertake plenty of research when deciding on your London student accommodation is vital to ensure you get the best deal that’s right for you.
Studying in the city is an exciting opportunity, but you must be wary of high prices. Try to be as economical as possible with the help of these tips, but don’t sacrifice the fun student life that so many yearn for!
Sophie Smith works as an independent consultant, specialising in offering advice on London student accommodation. London offers an unbeatable experience for international students, and Sophie has many suggestions to make sure that their time in the city is positive, safe and enjoyable.
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