Considering studying abroad in London, who's done it?

<p>So I wanna get out and see some of the world, and short of either winning the lottery or joining the military my best option is probably going through my school's study abroad program. I've always wanted to visit London (and the UK in general), so I figure this is my best chance.</p>

<p>Who here has done it? Did you enjoy it? What were the best parts? The worst? How expensive is it (that is, what's the cost of living)? Where did you stay? </p>

<p>I know it's an expensive city, although I already live in one (albeit a bit cheaper than London). I just want a general idea of how much it costs to be a student there.. y'know, going out to pubs, theaters etc.</p>

<p>It’s really easy to get cheap theatre tickets, if you know where to look. Most theatres have cheap tickets either on the day or slightly restricted (I’m talking maximum 30 quid), or else you can probably join a discount scheme.</p>

<p>I’ve lived in London my whole life till I came to UVA, so I have a bunch of info about London in general…</p>

<p>Alright! Well, first off, what is rent like in London? I know it’s expensive, but I also know there are parts that are cheaper. From what I’ve read, the East End is cheaper but a bit shadier although it’s seen an influx of creative, hip young folks (please correct me if I’m wrong, this is just what I’ve gathered from reading things online). How much would I be paying a month on average?</p>

<p>If it helps, my school’s program is at London Metropolitan University. However, I’ve heard that it’s not a very great school (although about half the courses we take are taught by UMD adjuncts), so I’m also considering applying to other schools. What is Royal Holloway’s reputation for business?</p>

<p>The East end of London isn’t that great. I’m living in Islington at the moment (East Central) and it’s a bit **** to be honest. Rent around here can be quite expensive too - London in general is a horrendously expensive city.
I’m paying £104 a week and that’s with subsidized housing costs (I’m in school-provided accommodation) so that’s about $700 a month I believe? That’s quite cheap though really.</p>

<p>London Met isn’t a great school at all - Royal Holloway is a step up, but if you’re looking at a business/economics geared program why not check out one of the better schools in London? Kings College and UCL are both better regarded, and LSE can’t be beat for econ.</p>