Student Bloggers
Lessons in London: 3 Things to Help You Stay Afloat When Abroad for the First Time
Date
March 11, 2025
1. Choosing Where and How to Shop
One aspect of London life that surprised me was all the options for grocery shopping. I am very familiar with the large chains back home in the US where I can find everything I need at once. Here in London, many stores have different options, and I’ve found that it is difficult to get everything I need at one store only. Be prepared to grow familiar with what stores are suitable for you and learn where to go for which grocery run. M&S, Co-op, and Sainsbury’s are the trio that will be there for you throughout your trip. Preparing quick and easy meals is so efficient (and it is much cheaper to each healthier here than in the US). Have essentials like pasta, rice, and veggies ready to go to make dinner much less stressful.
2. Apps for Navigating the City
The tube is the primary way to travel the city, so you will often be stopping at stations you may be unfamiliar with. While this may seem daunting at first, there are many apps you can use to help navigate your way quite easily. If you know what station you need to get to, the Tube App is a great option with a route planning feature and the ability to save your favorite stations for quick access. If you have a destination in mind but aren’t sure what station is closest, Google Maps will tell you exactly where to go.
One thing to keep in mind is that phone service in the Underground is often unreliable, and there may be times these apps will be unavailable in the tube. Make sure to plan your journey in advance and download an area map of London on your phone! I have used my downloaded map of London on Google Maps countless times, and it makes navigating in areas with poor reception much easier.
3. Connect with Nature
Big cities have a reputation for being quick paced and hectic, and London is no exception. However, the great thing about London for nature-lovers is there are tons of parks across the city if you’re looking for a green space to escape to.
For a lively community park with wide open space, dogs running around, and gorgeous views, check out Hampstead Heath in Highgate. For more trails and a calm woodland area, consider Queens Wood (they even have a dog friendly cafe you can stop in)!