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Daily Life

University of Plymouth

Below, a quick questions/answers english life presentation. Generally, life is a little bite more expensive than in France because the higher value of the currency.

So, here are some answers to frequently asked questions:

Which choice for the supermarket?

Supermarkets are more expensive than in France. The more attractive prices are especially among "Sainsbury's", supermarket located on the Armada Way, the large pedestrian avenue in Plymouth. In most districts, supermarkets such as "Sommerfield" are present. Prices are a little more expensive than "Sainsbury's". "Wilkinson" shop, comes really handy when you are in need of toiletories and other household detergents. They are at affordable price aswell and located in the same vacinity as sainsbury "Sainsbury's".

And the student restaurant?

For the restaurants, you can note the absence of student restaurants. Within the university there is a cafeteria in most buildings, but their rates are not interesting and the restaurant of the university is expensive. Therefore, it is better to go home at lunchtime. In contrast, fast food like McDonald's, KFC and other King Burgers are cheaper than in France.

Which are telecommunication prices?

Orange prices from England:

Received calls = 0.29 €/min
Dialled calls = 0.59 €/min

If you have Bouygues Telecom, there are options that allow you to call with the national rate, especially with the Neo package. But, this is expensive to call in France. Prefer services like Msn Messenger or Skype.

Transportation around town

Bus fairs costs £3 for a day ticket, this enables you to use the bus services throughout the day on that ticket, but most of the shops are in close proximity so walking is usually prefered to buses.(it cannot hurt us!). And, while your nightlife, the taxi is a good initiative. The price is about £4 for ten minutes ride.

Money; credit card or cash?

To know: Whenever you use your CB, your bank will charge a fixed sum which varies depending on the banks, on the amount of your cash withdrawal. Advice: withdraw big sums.

And the weather? It is cold?

Well...no! Although while the first days were covered in snow, once you are used to the weather, it's okay even if the temperatures don't exceed 20°C! The climate is pleasant in Plymouth is a little bit...the "England Côte d'Azur"! Just bring with you some sweaters and why not, a jacket for the first days, but you can also bring tank top and knickers for the month of may!

Which hobbies can I do?

Student Union (UPSU) offers many activities, but relatively expensive (a gymn session costs about £4). So, one another way to spend a good time if you are sportive is to go to Central Park with a ball (rugby or football). Excellent way to play with English people and so, learn english! If you like shopping, go to the Drake Circus mall

And, about shopping centre...is there sales?

Yes, sure! Prices are very attractive, probably more than in France. All shops offer sales and student discounts mostly after Christmas period across the whole country...don't worry! during the year each shop offers sales after each spring and summer season. So, get more information on the internet on your favorite shops!

Must I take my lessons for the project?

To tell you, it depends only of you! As you prefer if you fell better bringing them there. Personally, we did brought just programming course (because our project is on) but we didn't use them. More you'll have access to the library of the university, which contains ... many books! As you prefer!

When going to Plymouth?

As you prefer. It is good to get few days in advance preparation, visit the city and rest of the trip! However, be careful because when you book an accomodation, offices may be closed relatively early, around 3:00 or 4:00 pm. So, on our first arrival at 7pm at plymouth, we had to sleep in a hotel. Tip: prefer the Guest Hotels, which are very hospitable and friendly!

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