Final Recap of Studying Abroad in London

My home for the last few months. London, such a beautiful city. 

Wow. Well this semester has probably been the best of my life, and I can’t believe it’s already coming to a close. Not only have I learned so much about different countries throughout the United Kingdom and throughout Europe, but I’ve learned so much about myself in the process. From getting lost on the streets of random cities in Europe and finding my way home, to navigating and learning where I belong in London, this has been a transformational few months. I have loved seeing multiple plays a week with my classes and having an in depth study of the theater world in London, while also learning about new things like gothic literature and the presence it’s had in the United Kingdom. I have met so many amazing new friends that I may not have met otherwise, and I am sure that some of these friendships will last forever. While at first it was difficult to adjust to the new country and city, once I got the hang of it I feel like I really integrated into the culture. I don’t mean to sound sappy, but this has truly been a once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget. London has been such a wonderful home to me for the last few months. The theater is incredible, the social scene is amazing, and it is a unique city that I hope to visit again in the future! London will always feel like a home to me after this semester, and although I am so excited to return to New York City, I am sad to leave this place. The professors were amazing, the city is unique and beautiful, the culture was infectious, the friends are incredible, the traveling was once in a life time, and the experiences that I had are invaluable. I will always remember going to the Globe, eating delicious indian food and fish and chips, becoming a part of pub culture, visiting theaters all over London, seeing art exhibits, traveling through ten different cities, and feeling like I belong here. Thank you so much NYU London for making this the best three and a half months I may ever have! I hope to be back as soon as I can. 

CHEERIO LONDON! 

What I wish I had known in September

As I'm finishing up the semester, I thought I'd give some advice of things I WISH I had known back in September! These tips cover everything from where to shop, where to eat, how to pack, etc. So be prepared!

What I Wish I Had Known about Traveling:

1. PACK LIGHT! Especially if you are traveling through Ryan Air, Easy Jet, etc. They charge you 50 pounds if your bag is over 10 kilos and you have to check it at the airport.
2. Bring a language guide. Don't rely on others speaking english - have a way to communicate with them in their language! Even if you just have google translate on your iPhone and play them what you're trying to say on your speaker.
3. Budget. Don't spend money like you're on vacation, because traveling with no money in your pocket is dangerous.
4. Pay attention to local laws and customs. I remember I got ticketed in Prague for not having the right train ticket (it was 40 bucks!)
5. Fill your days with activity. As much as I enjoy spontaneous travel, it is important to have an idea of what you want to do/accomplish while you're in your country of choice. You don't want to leave regretting not doing something!
6. TRY NEW THINGS! Seriously, what's the point of traveling if you plan on eating Mcdonald's for every meal?
7. Don't travel every weekend. You'll be exhausted.

What I Wish I Had Known about Shopping in London:

Brick Lane Market

1. Primark. Primark. Primark. Primark. Think Top Shop clothing at Target Prices.
2. The Brick lane Markets. Tons of amazing vintage clothing for 10 pounds and under!




What I Wish I had Known about Eating in London:
1. Sainsbury's - a cheaper version of Waitrose
2. Brick Lane Market - every kind of food ever in one big room for 5 pounds and under
3. Saturday market at the Brunswick Center (fresh Chorizo, etc for 5 pounds every Saturday)

Hope this helps!