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London is the largest city and capital of England. The biggest megalopolis of the European Union, it’s a global capital of culture, fashion, business, and politics. But don’t worry, you’ll meet people from a rainbow of cultures, not only politicians or tycoons. This historic city pulsates with distinctive districts such as Leicester and Soho, two major entertainment centers. So, catch your student flight to London and have a great escape to Europe! Spring is the best time to visit with mild days and cool evenings. Don’t worry about rain – it’s regular but generally light; even snow is not common and can be seen lightly a few times a year. Though densely populated, London has large open spaces and green parkland, and two of the most charming are St. James’ and Regent’s Park near Primrose Hill, a great spot for viewing the London skyline. London is one of the most popular student travel sites and a good starting point for college student trips. London is also a popular study abroad destination for students so do some research and see if it’s right for you! Since London is a transport hub, you can visit other European hot spots from there.

London Pictures

Things to do in London

London boasts great landmarks. You have to see Westminster Abbey and Westminster Palace, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in St. James. Royal coronations have happened here since 1066! Want to travel around Europe? Have a London spring break! It’s spectacular and it’s Europe’s nerve center – you can get to other destinations from there. St. James Park nearby is great for strolling and picnics. Look through the London Eye, the big observation wheel on the Thames for magnificent views. Also, there are no entrance fees to most museums and galleries which is perfect for a student budget. You can check out the Tate Modern and the British Museum for starters. Just remember, you have to find time to visit Buckingham Palace even if only from the outside. It’s open only for summer tours.

Nightlife in London

London wouldn’t be London without its nightlife. You can find many nightclubs in Central London and around that can cater to unique tastes. Scream caters to a student audience, with affordable beer just like The Court and The Rocket in the Bloomsbury area. Many find super club Fabric as the best nightclub in the Farringdon/Hoxdon/Shoredirch area. Clubs here attract a lively crowd because of drum and bass, house, trance music and top DJs. Wanna enjoy exclusive clubs? Check out the West End, Leicester Square, Mayfair and Piccadilly. For indie, metal and rock music, check out the famous Koko and Underworld in the Camden area in North London.

Dining in London

London is an expensive place for eating and has many fine restaurants with famous chefs. But you can grab a great English pub or cafeteria breakfast on your student budget. You have to try Chinese (near West end and Soho) and other Asian restaurants for affordable buffet and drinks, as well as French, Mediterranean, and international cuisine. Avoid tourist traps like steakhouses near the tourist center and try food chains or ethnic places in the suburbs. Check out Brick Lane, Tooting or Brixton to name a few. You won’t have to worry too much about food prices if you’re buying a cheap flight!

Shopping in London

London is a great metropolis, so you can find anything here that you may want to buy. That is if you know where to go. Some shopping areas are Oxford and Bond Street, Covent Garden, and Knightsbridge with the famous Harrods. Check out the gift shop in London Transport Museum for great souvenirs, Charing Cross road for second-hand and antiquarian books, Soho and Camden Town for alternative and youthful shopping. Make sure to check out the Borough Markets for trendy choices.

London travel tips

• Londoners speak a Multicultural London English with distinctive accent and lots of slang.
• French fries are called chips and chips are called crisps.
• London has a great music scene with concerts and live music and many are free.