By:  Jake McCambley, Contributing Writer

Studying abroad in London can provide some comfort to those who are looking to immerse themselves in a new culture without having to worry about becoming fluent in a new language. With your nose stuck in translation dictionary, it is easy to miss the sights and sounds that will end up defining your trip. On a recent trip to London, where I was fluent with the language, my lack of fluency in the culture made for a turbulent transition, especially when dining. Looking back on my short visit there are three things that stick out as things to remember when traveling to London.

1)      Try the beef wellington. If you’ve never had beef wellington it’s a filling dish comprised of a succulent cut of beef coated in pâté and wrapped in a puff pastry. Your heart might not thank you but your taste buds will. A common dish, I ate it at both Simpsons in The Strand and the Grenadier Pub. Simpsons is an upscale restaurant with steeper prices, but even on a student’s budget, when the chefs cut roasted meat to your plate at the edge of your table, it becomes worth the sacrifice.

2)      The cider is not for kids. Whereas sparkling apple cider is a good substitute for the kids when the parents are drinking champagne during celebrations, if the kids in England did the same they’d wake up with some nasty hangovers. Reaching around 4.5% ABV brands like Bulmer’s and Kopparberg create alcoholic ciders that are very popular in pubs and restaurants.  However, where the kids should stay away, any student studying abroad should treat themselves at happy hour.

3)      “Bubble and Squeak” and “Bangers and Mash” are actual things. This is where I thought I actually had hit a language barrier. But in fact, these are actually pretty standard dishes, and frankly quite good. Bubble and Squeak is a traditional dish of fried vegetables served mainly with potatoes or cabbage. Bangers and Mash is just a fun way of saying sausage and mashed potatoes. Try both dishes, not only because they taste great, but because everyone deserves the fun of saying those silly English words out loud.

With these notes in mind, London is a great place to either visit or study abroad. The sights are great and the food is even better. I highly recommend the trip. Cheers!