ESCP-EAP LONDON The unofficial guide to ESCP-EAP

LONDON

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Table of Contents Welcome to London 4

Finance 5

Accommodation 6

Tenancy Deposit Protection 7

Accommodation and Prices 8

Hampstead and West Hampstead 9

Kilburn, Brondesbury and Golders Green 10

Cricklewood, Childs Hill and Dollis Hill 11

Council Tax 12

Estate agents 13

Getting started 14

Working 15

Temporary NI number 16

Permanent NI number 17

London Nightlife 19

Restaurants 22

Health 23

Getting around London 25

Transport Prices 26

Train Stations 28

VISAS 29

Safety 30

Counselling 33

Lost Property 37

Finally 38

Useful numbers 39

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WELCOME TO LONDON

First of all…CONGRATULATIONS! If you’re reading this then you’ve already achieved something special by be- ing accepted into ESCP-EAP – it’s not in the top three of French Business Schools for nothing (even if we say so ourselves!). Whether you’re studying the Masters in Management or in European Business, we hope you’re happy with your choice and that you take full advantage of it. However, being accepted onto your course is only one step of several that you need to take – namely figuring out how to survive in, and above all enjoy, London life - which is what this booklet is all about.

When we asked a recent student what the best way of settling into London was, they said ‘just get lost, and try to find your way back’. This isn’t something we recommend you take too literally, but it certainly proves one thing; how overwhelming every- thing can seem at first. It’s not cheap, but it is fun; it’s not simple, but it is worth it.

In this booklet you’ll find info about where to live, how to pay for it, where to go out, what to do, how to get there …in fact, most of the things you’ll want to know. We hope we haven’t missed anything out but if we have… make sure you get out there and do it! Hopefully it will provide you with everything that an ESCP-EAP student would ever need to know.

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Finance

It pains us to start off with one of the more boring aspects of your life at ESCP-EAP but, like most things in England, it is a necessary evil. Without a bank account you can’t do the vital things in life like going to nightclubs and cinemas, as well as unimportant stuff like buying marketing textbooks. So get this as soon as you can! Who you bank with is your choice, but ESCP-EAP has got an association with HSBC bank, whose branch is just down the road from the School, at 122 Finchley Road. As it says on www.escp-eap.net, you can set up a bank account with them either through their website (www.hsbc.co.uk) or via a call centre (08457 404404) in your home country. This account offers online banking , cash machine withdrawals (up to £200 per day) and Solo ATM card which and is not accepted on all online sites. The monthly fee for this account is £5.

For those of you that want to do it when you come to England, we will distribute application forms during the registration day and you will be able to collect your debit card in 2 weeks. This account offers more facilities such a international debit card (accepted worldwide where Cirrus/Maestro are accepted), telephone & online banking, instant access saver account and others. The monthly fee for this account is £6.

Either way, remember one thing - this is worth doing as soon as you can!

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Accommodation Finding accommodation is another rea- A more detailed description of these son why you should try and get your bank areas follows. account set up quickly, because accommodation is the second Most of the current students choose live serious thing you need to get to grips in Cricklewood and Child’s Hill, or close with. The majority of ESCP-EAP students to the School in find somewhere to West Hampstead. This is live relatively a reflection on both price quickly and easily, and convenience – prop- but it can always erties in Cricklewood and help if you have Child’s Hill are cheaper some background than those elsewhere, information at but there are a lot more hand. facilities right on your doorstep in West Hamp- Try looking for stead (including the accommodation at School, which may or least six weeks may not be appealing) before the start of term – that way you’ll and the lively Finchley Road. Meanwhile, avoid the rush for student housing that the third most popular choice was in always happens, and get the nicer places Golders Green, where a significant num- before anyone else. ber of students live. This is a good idea – the area has reasonable rates, a lot to do, and is a little bit closer to the School. Most ESCP-EAP students Kilburn and Brondesbury and Dollis Hill predominately live in: are both fine as well (we wouldn’t rec- ommend them if they weren’t) but some • Hampstead students living here felt they were a little • West Hampstead too far away from where the fun was, • Kilburn and Brondesbury and that the transport links were a little • Golders Green limited. However, it didn’t seem to stop • Cricklewood and Childs Hill them from creating their own fun in their own area. Either way, it boils down to- • Dollis Hill how close you want to live to the School,

and what you are prepared to pay.

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Tenancy Deposit Protection From 6 April 2007, all deposits (up to the level of £25,000) taken by landlords and letting agents for Assured Shorthold Tenancies in England and Wales, must be protected by a tenancy deposit protection scheme.

What are Tenancy Deposit Schemes? There are two types of tenancy deposit protection scheme available for landlords and letting agents (insurance-based schemes and custodial schemes). All schemes provide a free dispute resolution service.

What are Tenancy Deposit Schemes? The schemes allow tenants to get all or part of their deposit back when they are entitled to it and encourage tenants and landlords to make a clear agreement from the start on the condition of the property.

The schemes: • allow tenants to get all or part of their deposit back when they are entitled to it • make any disputes easier to resolve • encourage tenants and landlords to make a clear agreement from the start on the condition of the property

There are two types of tenancy deposit protection scheme available for landlords and letting agents. All schemes provide a free dispute resolution service.

We strongly advise you to check the following website for full details about the Ten- ancy Deposit Protection: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TenancyDeposit/index.htm

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Area Distance Transportation Main Average housing from attractions price range School Hampstead 5 minute Tube: Hampstead Hampstead 1 bed studio: walk (Zone 2) Heath; Freud £720/month Bus : 268 from Museum; 3 bedroom house: Hampstead High Everyman £1,880/month Street to O2 Centre Cinema and 4 bedroom house: on Finchley Road variety of £2,200/month restaurants West School is Tube: West O2 shopping 1 bed studio: Hampstead situated Hampstead & center; variety £640/month in this Finchley Road of bars, pubs, 3 bedroom house: area Bus: 113 and 82 restaurants and £1,450/month from Finchley speciality shops 4 bedroom house: Road to Oxford £2,020/month Circus and Victoria Station respectively Rail: West Hampstead and Finchley & Frognall Kilburn & 15 Tube: Kilburn, Tricycle arts 1 bed studio: Brondesbury minute Kilburn Park, center; ethnic £620/month wallk Queens Park & and organic 3 bedroom house: Kensal Green cuisines; £1,133/month Bus: 328 to Queens; 4 bedroom house: Finchley Road and Brondesbury £1,690/month Golders Green Grange & Rail: Brondesbury Fryent country & Kilburn High parks Road Golders Green 10 Tube: Golders Hampstead 1 bed studio: minute Green Heath; £600/month bus ride Bus: 82 from woodland 3 bedroom house: Golders Green bus walks; ethnic £1,253/month station to Victoria and speciality 4 bedroom house: Station cuisine; £1,260/month Cricklewood & 15 Bus: 460 or C11 Cricklewood 1 bed studio: Childs Hill minute from Cricklewood festivals £607/month walk Broadway to North 3 bedroom house: Finchley or Brent £1,066/month Cross 4 bedroom house: £1,320/month Dollis Hill 10 minue Tube: Dollis Hill Gladstone Park; 1 bed studio: tube Bus: 226 from Brent Reservoir £660/month journey Dudden Hill Lane 3 bedroom house: to Park Royal £1,120/month 4 bedroom house: £1,400/month

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In Detail…..

• HAMPSTEAD Hampstead is the area east of Finchley Road and is one of the closest to the School. It is a very affluent neighborhood with housing options ranging from terraced houses to Victorian mansions. It used to be a more artistic area but is now being replaced as a suburb for wealthy professionals.

The main attraction of Hampstead is the famous 791-acre Hampstead Heath. It provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city around it and is one of the most popular recreational areas in London. Par- liament Hill offers fantastic views of the city and Kenwood House is a popular venue for open-air con- certs throughout the year. Hampstead is also home to the Freud Museum and the Everyman alternative cinema club. With over 300 restaurants, Hampstead is also known for its enormous selection of eateries.

Hampstead underground station and various bus services connect this part of north London to the city center.

• WEST HAMPSTEAD West Hampstead encompasses the area surrounding the School, west of Finchley Road and east of Cricklewood Broadway. The charming residential streets and the conveniences of Finchley Road, combined with more reasonable housing prices, make West Hampstead an attractive place to live.

Finchley Road has a wide range of wine bars, pubs and restaurants, mostly located along the bustling West End Lane. There is a collection of outlets specializing in books, antiques and interiors, in addition to shops providing for basic amenities such as launderettes, banks and grocers. The huge O2 shopping center, near the Finchley Road underground station, has a supermarket, multiplex cinema, fitness center (the Esporta), bars and restaurants catering for all tastes.

West Hampstead is easily accessible by different underground train stations such as Kilburn, West Hampstead, Swiss Cottage and Finchley Road.

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• KILBURN AND BRONDESBURY Kilburn is south west of the School and within 15 minutes walking distance. It is one of the more multicultural boroughs of London, with nearly half of the population representing an ethnic minority, and has recently become a trendy area to live. It is conveniently close to the city center and has properties comparable to those in Hampstead but at less expensive prices.

Kilburn High Road is cheap and cheerful with all the typical high street chains and service providers. Restaurants in the area cater for a broad range of tastes, includ- ing a variety of ethnic cuisines and organic foods. Queens Park, Brondesbury, Grange and Fryent Country parks all offer quiet and open space, per- fect for leisurely weekend afternoons. The Tri- cycle Arts Center, a well-regarded theatre and art- house cinema, attracts people from across London.

Kilburn can be reached by the Kilburn, Kil- burn Park, Queens Park and Kensal Green under- ground stations or by the Brondesbury train sta- tion.

• GOLDERS GREEN Golders Green is a prosperous area with a strong community feel, and is about a ten minute bus ride north of the School. The lively main road dissects the area, which is otherwise comprised of quiet, tree lined streets. Like Hampstead, Golders Green also has ac- cess to Hampstead Heath. In the park students can enjoy the spectacular views of London or woodland walks such as the London Loop, which circles the outskirts of London. Other attractions include The Museum of Jewish Life and The Royal Air Force Museum. There is a vast selection of restaurants, bakeries, butchers and grocers. In particular, the Indian, Middle Eastern, Japanese, and Kosher eateries deserve a taste.

Golders Green provides easy access to central London via the Northern under- ground line and several bus services, including bus 82, which stops near the School.

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• CRICKLEWOOD AND CHILDS HILL Cricklewood is located north of West Hampstead, between Cricklewood Broadway and Hendon Way, about a 15-minute walk from the School. Cricklewood has reason- able prices and a relaxed character. The diversity of cultures makes it an interesting place to live. Cricklewood Broadway is a quirky, patchwork main street best known as the setting for Zadie Smith’s novel White Teeth. Every July, the Cricklewood Festival attracts people with live music, DJ’s, arts and a fun fair.

The northeast part of Cricklewood is known as Child’s Hill. It is near to Hampstead Heath, between the School and Golders Green. This is a quieter, residential area with easy access to the School via bus 82 (along Finchley Road).

Though there are no underground stations in the area, Crickle- wood railway station and bus services link it to the city centre.

• DOLLIS HILL Dollis Hill is fur- ther west of Cricklewood and enjoys impressive views of the city. Traditional housing and a more tranquil environ- ment give this area an up- market feel, yet still offers reasonable prices.

Gladstone Park is the heart of Dollis Hill, with tennis courts, a putting green and the recently renovated Dollis Hill House. The House is a café, arts centre and confer- ence venue which regularly hosts classical concerts. The Brent Reservoir, is a popu- lar summer attraction for windsurfing, sailing, rowing, and canoeing. In addition, the extraordinary Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, the largest Hindu temple in London, is found in nearby Neasden.

Though it is further from the School, Dollis Hill has the benefit of being only 20 min- utes from the city centre. The School is 10 minutes away via the Dollis Hill under- ground station, or the bus from nearby Dudden Hill Lane.

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Council Tax

The Council Tax is a system of local taxation col- lected by local authorities. It is a tax on domestic property and, generally, the bigger the property is the more tax will be charged. There is only one council tax bill per dwelling. If you do not live in an exempt dwelling, or if you do not qualify for a dis- count, you and the other residents in the property may be liable to pay the full council tax, typically around £100 per month (although this will vary depending on the area in which you live, and the size of the property). The bill for council tax is set for the ‘dwelling’ (e.g. whole flat or house). If all the residents of the dwelling are full-time students, the dwelling is exempt. If you find that you are sharing a dwelling with people who are not full-time students you will not be personally liable for council tax for that dwelling if you provide the council with proof of your full-time student status. In such cases the other non- students or part-time student residents of the flat/house will be legally liable for the whole bill. This means that no full-time student is liable to pay council tax to the local council, however you still may be required to contribute towards the bill for the household under the contractual terms of your tenancy agreement. Please note that you will be liable for council tax for the period that you are not registered as a full-time student (for example, if you take out a tenancy agreement in July you will be liable for the council tax from the date you signed the tenancy agreement until you are formally registered as a student when you start the course in Sep- tember).

Please be aware that if you choose to take a gap year in London you will be liable for council tax during that time.

When you register for your course in September, we will provide you with letters for the Council verifying your student status, which you must forward to your local. Failure to do so may result in you being held liable for the council tax bill and you may find yourself being threatened with court action. The Council Tax regulations are very complex and this information is a general guide only. If you have any queries or problems you should contact the Citizens Advice Bureau (http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk).

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Estate Agents

Estate agents are a curious breed, and beware as they start by promising you every- thing yet they tend to change when they want your signature for a lease. Be pre- pared for the following:

• Guarantors – some students were asked for up to two guarantors each before they signed the lease. Thankfully this was rare but for those who had to get them, it delayed the process a little.

• One month rent AND deposit in the first month. Deposits can be equal to up to 6 weeks’ rent. Paying what is often a big lump sum can be a bit of a shock but it’s standard practice for most es- tate agents. All the more reason to set up your finances properly and as soon as possible! Be sure to get an inventory (a list of all the furnish- ings in the property) when you move in. If anything is damaged, ask for the inventory to be amended. You don’t want your landlord accusing you of damage to the property when you move out, as this may result in you losing your deposit.

• You may be asked for a reference from someone who will confirm your ability to pay the rent regularly. Your previous landlord, bank, or employer will usually be suitable.

• Watch out for Agent’s fees. There should be no fee to register with an agent, but there may be administration costs if you agree to rent from them.

• Bills. Make sure you’re clear on what is included and what isn’t. Some people had their water bills included as part of their lease; others had gas or electricity in- cluded; and some poor people had none at all. This might cause a bit of confusion later on in the lease so make sure you are aware from the start who you should be paying and when. Above all else – make sure you view the property before signing! That way, whatever faulty radiators or leaking roof there might be can be discovered BEFORE you move in.

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Getting started….

Now that you know a bit more about the West end estates areas and details of accommodation in 322 West end Lane London here is a few places to start. Hampstead London NW6 1LN

www.westendestates.com Millenium residential

517 Finchley Rd The London Letting Company Hampstead London NW3 7BG 190 Kilburn high rd Tel: + 44 2077940400 London NW6 4JD [email protected] Tel: +44 2077947744 www.milleniumresidentail.com www.thelondonlettingcompany.com

Hausman & Holmes USEFUL WEBSITES: 57 Golders Green Rd www.londonmadeeasy.com - highly London NW11 8EL recommended Tel: + 44 2084588555 www.gumtree.com – a good source of cheap accommodation www.hausmanandholmes.com www.springboardurban.co.uk - specifically designed to help graduates find a place to live in London Frognal Estates www.findaproperty.co.uk 283 Finchley rd www.loot.com London NW3 6ND www.vebra.com www.rightmove.co.uk Tel: + 44 2074317070 Www.moveflat.com [email protected] And Finally… Www.frognal.co.uk If it all goes wrong and you’ve got no- where to go then the nearest Ellis & Co hostel is:

52 Golders Green Rd Youth Hostel Association Golders Green, London NW11 8LN 4 Wellgarth Road Golders Green Tel: +44 2084551014 London NW11 7HR [email protected] Tel: 020 8458 9054 Fax: 0 20 8209 0546 Email: [email protected]

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Working

London is an expensive place, so it can help to get a part-time job if you need some extra cash. Obviously any nearby bars or restaurants are worth checking out (which was how most of the students from last year found their jobs), as are the local news- papers or job agencies (the ones nearest to your area can be found at www.upmystreet.com). There is also a job center very close to the School on Finchley Road.

The good news is you should almost always be exempt from paying any tax, as this is only applicable to people who earn over £4615 a year – always ask your employer for a tax exemption form though, just to make sure! Unfortunately, though, you will have to pay National Insurance – a contribution made by employees and employers to the Inland Revenue. Most UK citizens are issued with a National Insurance num- ber on their 16th birthday, but if you are not a UK citizen and have not worked in the UK before you will need to get a National Insurance number.

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NI Temporary number

How to get a National Insurance Number:

1. A temporary number · When you start working, you will have to complete an Inland Revenue form (e.g. a P46, P38). · Please note that your are required by law to have a national insurance num- ber and your employer may not be able to pay you until you have one number.

We highly recommend that you make an appointment to get a permanent national insurance number as soon as possible.

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NI Permanent number 2. A permanent number · You can get a permanent NI number from your local Benefits Agency (the one nearest your term time address). You can find your local office by looking in the telephone directory under 'Government Offices' - 'Benefits Agency'. · Telephone the office to arrange an appointment to apply for a NI number. (Do not be surprised if there is a long wait!)

· You will need to take some personal documents to the appoint- ment to prove your identity. Ask the Benefits Agency which docu- ments you will need. It may include:

· Your passport

· Your National Identity Card

· Work Permit

· Birth certificate

· Proof that you have been offered employment (a letter from your employer / a contract of employment / a pay- slip)

· Proof of your address in the UK (such as a utilities bill

· Proof of your student status

Photocopies of the above will not be accepted. Staff will need to see the original document.

· If you do not have the documents required, you should still attend the appointment, as the staff will be able to advise you on your next steps.

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Continued……...

· Once the procedure has been completed you will be issued with a National Insurance Number. Be prepared to wait though, as it can take 12 – 14 weeks to arrive! · You will be given a letter confirming that you have applied for the number and a copy of this letter should also go to your em- ployer. You may continue to work while you are waiting for the number to arrive. If you have a visa, do remember to check if you need a work permit or not (if you have a visitors visa you will need to get it changed to a student visa before you can work in the UK).

You do NOT need a work visa to carry out the internship as your student status still applies for this.

Finally, the local Volunteer Bureau council provides the opportunity for vol- unteer work (www.camdenvb.org.uk or call on 020 7424 9990).

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London Nightlife

It’s always good to know what you’ll be spending your hard-earned cash on when you come to London, so here it is. Most students are obviously aware of the major tourist attractions in London (such as Big Ben, the Mil- lennium Wheel and the National Gal- lery) but don’t forget there is a lot of local stuff as well. On a night out, you could be seriously s t r e t c h i n g y o u r budget if you wanted to go into Central London – excluding transport can cost you a small fortune depend- ing on what you want to do. Dinner is usually £15+ , and some of the more popular clubs have an entrance fee of around £15. This is why West Hampstead is such a great place to go out. Among students at ESCP-EAP it has earned a reputation as a place to go and have an enjoyable, but not entirely hectic, night. Walking home with some change is better than hitching home with none!

Bars and Clubs Basically, West End Lane in West Hampstead seems to be the best place in the area to go – a mixture of bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants that are relaxed, stylish, but above all fun. Over the next few pages are the top five bars and clubs that ESCP- EAP students thought were the best (taste not withstanding!). Don’t forget to check the glossary for their addresses and numbers.

There are live bands on Friday and Saturday evenings and live jazz on Sunday after- noons. There’s also a DJ Thursday through Sunday evenings.

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Local places to be….. 1. Walkabout. Hmmm. ESCP-EAP students came from all over Europe to one of the most cosmo- politan cities in the world … to go to an Australian-themed nightclub. It’s a very good idea though, as this huge and lively bar is close to the School and right next to the massive O2 center, a huge mall that has other night and day attractions. The club itself combines rustic and modern appearances, and has lots on offer for all tastes – DJ’s on the weekend and, very often, live guitar music on certain nights of the week. Drinks, by comparison to other large London venues, are pretty cheap, whilst the food and drink on offer is eccentric but very good.

2. The Crown. From the outside, the Crown looks impressive – it’s an imposing, redbrick building that incorporates a hotel with five bars. Each bar has a unique ambience, from lei- surely to lively, but the overall style is a contemporary one. The good thing about this place is that it can be the best of both worlds – right in the middle of Cricklewood means you can have a relaxed drink before heading off somewhere else, or stay all night due to it being big enough. Either way, the choice is there under one roof.

3. Cane Bar Although a little small, this cocktail bar is still stylish and relaxed enough to have a decent night – any place with a bed and a table football game in the same room has got to be worth a visit! The tables outside are great in the summer, or at least when it's sunny, and the drinks are reasonably priced when compared to the rest of Lon- don. There's usually a DJ on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and whilst it gets busy quickly, it never gets too busy. Out of all the places mentioned here, this is perhaps the one with the smartest décor, so it’s good for showing off to your friends about how tasteful you are.

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4. Sirous Tapas Bar & Restaurant

Half-restaurant and half-bar, ESCP- EAP students tend to ignore the restaurant – as good as it is – and concentrate just on the bar. There's a 2-4-1 deal on the cocktails, between 5pm-7pm, everyday except for weekends, but it’s still worth get- ting some food once in a while - three tapas dishes comes with ½ a litre of Sangria. Which is a lot, if your crowd is big enough. Like the Cane bar, the atmosphere is cool and the crowd is young. The DJ plays standard chart music, but conscious of the restaurant, there’s no dancing!

5. Latelys Open for 25 years, Latelys has been around long enough to know what works and what doesn’t. It’s the only place in West Hampstead that’s open until 2AM. That’s another thing you might have to get used to – Britain’s lack luster opening hours when compared to Europe. Whilst it gets busy during the week, the real action is on a Saturday night where a one-off membership fee of £5 gets you in free for the whole year. When you realize entry prices in some Central London clubs are between £10 and £20, it makes sense over the long term! The average prices make up for the limited drink menu, but overall it’s a night that is worth it.

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Restaurants 1. Walnut The interior is small and comfortable, with roof-to-ceiling windows and an open plan kitchen that gives it a more spacious experience (you can also watch the chef at work). The menu is Modern European and pretty cheap - the price for a meal for two is about £30 (excluding drink).

2. Gourmet Burger Kitchen This London chain is a real treat – McDonalds it most certainly is not. The seating is simple and you pay for food and drinks at the bar, but the burgers, from an intrigu- ing and most imaginative list of about 30, are massive – a good 8 inches high, all held precariously together with thickly cut chips and salad (it always helps to feel slightly healthy when eating something of this size). Expect to pay about £12 for two people.

3. Dona Olga This friendly and cheap restaurant crams the customers in around plastic tables with the promise of excellent authentic Colombian cooking, which is served in huge, tasty portions. The empanadas are a real and authentic taste of South America, and you can really appreciate the Latin feel that the restaurant has. Again, it should cost around £30 for a night for two.

Don’t forget to check to glossary for a list of cinemas, theatres and art galleries that are also in the area. Also, buy a copy of Time Out, which is a weekly guide to London entertainment, and check out the following websites: www.londontown.com www.itchylondon.co.uk www.viewlondon.co.uk www.visitlondon.com www.inlondon.com

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Health

GYMS The two largest gyms that are the nearest to the School are Holmes Place in Crickle- wood Lane, and Esporta in the O2 center. With both gyms you can buy yearly mem- bership or pay monthly, usually at a cost of between £50-70 (the rate varies de- pending on which facilities you want to use). Both of them should allow you access to:

Aerobics Health and beauty salon Pilates room Weights room Sunbeds Massage Nutrition rooms Sauna and steam room Spa Cycling room Swimming pool Self-defence classes Yoga.

TREATMENT Health is a flexible issue in the UK. There are NHS Walk-in Centres (the nearest one to the School is the Whittington NHS Walk-In Centre, Whittington Hospi- tal, Highgate Hill, London N19 5NF – about 4.05 km or 2.52 miles) where you can quite literally just walk in. Walk-In Centres are usually open seven days a week, from early in the morning until late in the evening and offer treatment for minor ill- nesses and injuries, assessment by an experienced NHS nurse, advice on how to stay healthy, and information on out-of-hours GP and dental services. To find the nearest Walk-In Centre to where you are living you should go to http://www.nhs.uk/ England/NoAppointmentNeeded/WalkInCentres/Default.aspx.

NHS Direct is a 24-hour telephone line, staffed by nurses, which offers quick access to health care advice. NHS Direct nurses will you advice and support on self treat- ment or if you need further help, they’ll put you in touch with the right service.

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If it’s a serious condition or an emergency, the nurse will give you speedy advice on what you need to do, and will call an ambulance if needed. NHS Direct is open 24 hours a day, on 0845 46 47. You can also visit their website for advice: http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.

There is also a private walk-in center: Doctor Today, 182 Finchley Road, London NW3 6BP (opposite Finchley Road tube station), telephone 020 7443 1444; e- mail: [email protected]. They are open from 10am-8pm Monday to Friday and 10am-1pm on Saturday. For further information please visit their website: www.doctortoday.co.uk/.

You can also register with a local doctor (known as a GP) as long as you can provide proof that you’re a resident in the area they serve. There should be at least five GPs in any given area. The easiest way to find your nearest GP is to go to http://www.nhs.uk/england and type in your postcode. It’s then a case of calling them up and asking if you can register, which can be done in a day. After that, you can call any time to make an appointment should you feel the need to. The website should also be the first place to look if you want to find your nearest dentist or optician (although there may be a minimum charge).

If you’re a national of any EAA countries it’s worth getting an E111 form, which you should get in your home country before coming to the UK. Not only are they free, they enable you to free or reduced-cost health cover in almost all of Europe. Note: From September 2005, the E111 will be replaced by the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card). Form E111s issued after 19th August 2004 will continue to be valid until 31st December 2005. If you are coming from a country outside of the EAA, then you should take our private health insurance before coming to the UK.

Hospital treatment: Anyone who comes to the UK to persue a full-time course of study which lasts more than six months will be entitled to free NHS hospital treatment should the need arise. If your course lasts less than six months you will have to pay for hospital treatment, unless your country holds a bilateral heath care agreement with the UK. Regardless of nationality, Accident and Emergency departments will not charge you for treatment if you are involved in an accident and need emergency treatment. More information on healthcare entitlements is available at the Department of Health website: www.dh.gov.uk.

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Getting around London

Public transport within London consists of the underground railway and the bus service. The London underground transportation system - “the tube” - is divided into 6 zones, with ESCP-EAP located in zone 2.

If you think you’ll be in London for a year and be using the tube a lot, it could be worth checking out Oyster cards. These make payment a lot more efficient – you can just scan them at special machines in the station, type in the ticket price and the amount will be debited from your account. You can also recharge them over the phone or via the Internet. If the card is lost or sto- len, the authorities can immediately cancel the card and issue a new one.

Applying for one is easy – just ask at the Programme Office for a form and they will gladly give one to you. All you have to do is then get the form validated by us, and send it off with a £5 payment.

You’ll usually travel only within zones 1, 2 and 3. A single fare within these zones costs between £1.10 and £2.50, whilst a return ticket costs about £4.40 (obviously, both prices depend on how far you travel). The ticket types are relatively flexible, and depend on how far in London and to what areas you wish to travel; options are one or three day tickets, weekly or monthly tickets.

Contacts: www.tfl.gov.uk - official website for London transport. Goes into great detail on all aspects, and is very useful for checking facts.

Oyster Cards Tel: +44 8708499999 www.oystercard.com

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 26

Transport prices

The Underground (but these tickets can also be used on the buses and overland trains in London)

Travel card Travel price within zones 1, 2 & 3 Student prices (prices based on ticket type available)

All Day Zones 1-2 £6.60 (peak), Not Available £5.10 (off peak) Zones 1-3 £ £7.80 (peak only)

3 Day travel card Zones 1-2 £16.40 (peak only) Not Available Zones 1-6 £39.60 (on peak) £20 .10 (off peak)

Weekly Zones 1-2 £23.20 Zones 1-2 £16.20 Zones 1-3 £27.40 Zones 1-3 £19.10

Monthly Zones 1-2 £89.10 Zones 1-2 £62.30 Zones 1-3 £105.30 Zones 1-3 £73.40

Annual Zones 1-2 £928 Zones 1-2 £ 648 Zones 1-3 £1096 Zones 1-3 £ 764

Please note that all prices were correct at the time of printing.

Students taking a GAP YEAR will not be able to apply for Student Oyster Cards as you have to be attend- ing a full-time course, consisting of 15 hours tuition or more to be eligible to the student discount scheme.

PAGE 27 ESCP-EAP LONDON

Transport continued….

For travel on the London buses the prices are as follows…..

Travel card Price for travel Student prices

Single fare £1.50 £ not available

One day bus pass £3.50 £ not available

Weekly £13.50 £9.40

Monthly £51.90 £36.10

Annual £540 £376

Depending on where you want to go, the buses that run along Finchley Road and that pass the School are numbers 13, 82, 113, and 268.

London Coach and Train Stations Coach stations The main coach station in London is Victoria Station. Information on destinations, fares and bookings can be found at www.tfl.gov.uk/vcs/

The nearest coach station to the School is at Golders Green, from which the Na- tional Express operates.

To get there from the campus, take bus number 82 and get off at Golders Green station. For information on National Express services visit www.nationalexpress.com or call 087 0580 8080.

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 28

Train stations

Each of these stations is also situated on the London underground making them easily accessible. The nearest railway station to the ESCP-EAP is Finchley & Frognal station. The main train stations in London are: • Euston • Kings Cross St. Pancras • Liverpool Street • Waterloo • Paddington • Victoria Station

Information for individual rail companies that operate from London and the rest of the UK can be found at www.nationalrail.co.uk or by calling 084 5148 4950.

PAGE 29 ESCP-EAP LONDON

Students with VISAS

Students from the European Union or European Economic Area do not need a visa. The following website provides entrance requirements to the UK for all nationalities: http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk

If you have any enquiries concerning your visa once you are in Britain (such as apply- ing for extensions) you should contact the Immigration & Nationality Directorate:

Lunar House 40 Wellesley Road Croydon CR9 2BY Tel: 0870 6067766 http://www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk.

If you want to apply for an extension to your visa, then it is best to do it 2 months before it expires. It is a very expensive process especially if you need it done within 24 hours as it can cost up to £500 ( – so think carefully before you do so).

Remember, you can still work even if you have a student visa, but there a few condi- tions:

• You can’t work for more than 20 hours per week during term time (excluding internships). • You can’t do business, be self-employed or work full- time in a permanent job. • You have to attend a minimum of 80% of the lessons and the school is obliged by law to report to the Home Office and visa national student who fails to attend two consecutive lessons without a valid justification for the absence.

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 30

Safety

We hope you enjoy yourself in Lon- Personal Safety and possessions - If don. But there are times, as in any you’re anxious of walking alone in major city, when you should be wary. areas you do not feel safe in, then Generally crime around West Hamp- personal attack alarms are useful. stead and the surrounding areas are With possessions, it is worth consid- quite low when compared to other ering buying security marker pens. parts of London, and you will probably With these, you can write your post- have heard some frightening stories code onto your property, but it will that are in reality very rare. However, only become visible under ultra- violet it always pays to be careful! light; so if they are stolen and then recovered, a conviction can be made almost instantly. First things first, the emergency num- ber if you want to call the police, the fire brigade or an ambulance is 999. This is especially appealing if you Call them as soon as you can if any of don’t want to scratch your name into the above are required. If you have to your possessions, although this in call one of the emergency services itself is a much more effective form of from inside the School, you need to deterrent. Keep your personal belong- dial 9999. ings with you at all times. Laptops are ESCP-EAP has a community liaison one of the most common forms of officer from the police station (again, theft so keep an eye on them con- just around the corner from the stantly. Try and keep the expensive School). Ask at the programme office stuff such as stereos and computers for his email address if you are con- AWAY from your downstairs window, cerned about anything regarding your and more importantly … keep it personal safety. They should also closed when you’re not in the room! have a list of police stations that Also be wary when on your mobile should cover the local area, and phone – thieves often snatch them therefore probably one near to your and run off. house.

Leaflets are available on personal safety, but here are some tips that you might find useful.

PAGE 31 ESCP-EAP LONDON

Endsleigh Insurance are the UK’s premier student insurers – go to www.endsleigh.co.uk for more information, or ask at the ESCP-EAP Programme Office which policies they offer that may be suitable.

Cash machines – be wary of people standing too close to you when withdrawing cash. They could be looking at your pin number, or be ready to snatch the money.

Unlicensed taxis – now THIS is a serious one. In London there is a major prob- lem with people getting into cars with drivers claiming to be a taxi, as this is how 11 sexual assaults happen each month in London. The only taxis that are al- lowed to stop if you hail them down are the big ‘black cabs’ with fluorescent orange TAXI signs on them. Properly licensed cabs can only be used when or- dered for over the telephone, and are not legally allowed to stop when hailed down. Always get into a black cab or phone a firm to order one (his documenta- tion proving he is properly licensed should be on the dashboard). If it’s 2 AM and you’re desperate to get home after a night out, make sure you’re with friends and that you’re thinking straight.

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 32

Safety on Public Transport and in the School. Public transport Safety in the School

When travelling at night, try and find out The School has a statutory duty to times in advance. This means you wont ensure, so far as is reasonably practi- be hanging around on your own. If you cable, that employees and other peo- feel anxious about travelling the tube on ple will not be placed at risk either by your own, it’s always a good idea to travel the condition of property, or the con- in the first carriage – although all car- duct of activities within the control of riages have alarms, banging on the the School. Students are accorded a driver’s door will make him come to your similar aid even quicker. standard of care as employees. They too have a duty not to place them- Never get into an empty tube carriage by selves or others at risk by their acts yourself – you never know who’s going to or omissions. They are expected to get on at the next stop, and you could cooperate with their tutors in adher- find yourself alone with someone you’d ing to safety rules and procedures rather not be trapped in a carriage with. established in pursuance of this pol- icy for health and safety and to re- If something unpleasant does happen, frain from misusing safety devices. alert other passengers – safety in num- bers usually works! All carriages display the number of the British Transport Police. Phew! This may seem like a lot and has probably terrified you but trust us, as long as you have basic common sense you should be okay! You should find the number of the nearest station in the glossary but in the meantime, be alert and trust your instincts – if some- thing/someone just feels wrong, then assume that it is – and take sensible action.

PAGE 33 ESCP-EAP LONDON

Counselling

Over the course of your studies, you may understandably wish to see a Call them and have a brief chat. counsellor. Do NOT be put off if you get through to Deadlines, housemates, homesick- their voicemail – they’ll call you back if ness, illness or worrying about money you leave a name and number. Should can all be part of the student experi- you decide to have an initial meeting ence, but that doesn’t mean that they with them, feel free to ask about their should get you down. background and qualifications.

The British Association for Counselling This will give you another opportunity to (BAC) is the UK’s main body for repre- consider whether this particular individ- senting counselling, and has exacting ual is the right one for you, and whether standards concerning training, a code you want to carry on seeing him/her for of ethics and a complaints procedure. a certain length of time. If you ever want to see a counsellor then it’s advised that it is one regis- If you’re not sure, it’s best to arrange to tered with them – otherwise the ex- see another one - feeling comfortable perience may be a waste of time and talking to your councillor is obviously simply add to your worries! the most important aspect of the whole process! Some counsellors offer reduced-cost counselling for those who may have Look at www.counselling.co.uk to find trouble paying the full amount in one instance. Similarly, some councillors the counsellor that may be the most may have specialist areas that mean useful. they might have more expertise on certain subjects. Either way, the BAC has made the search half as difficult by making sure those that are regis- tered with them are reputable. After this, the final judge of whether a counsellor is suitable or not is you.

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 34

Meanwhile, here are profiles of several councilors local to the School :

Name Diana Davis Type Therapist County London – North West Telephone 020 7586 4876 Email [email protected] Address London NW3 Registered with: BACP, UKCP (IPSS) Code of Ethics: BACP, Constituent of UKCP Qualifications BACP Reg Counsellor, 1997; MA Psychotherapy & Social Studies, 2000; Dip Psychotherapy & Social Grad Dip Couns, 1994 Experience/Speci Anxiety, Bereavement, Depression, alist Interest Employment difficulties, Health related issues, Relationships, Sexuality, Stress Identified as: Counsellor, Psychotherapist Sees: Eclectic, Psychoanalytic Work practice Long- and short-term face-to-face work, Telephone counselling Additional My special interest is working with Information clients with ME/CFS Fees £40 to £60. So me low cost places available

PAGE 35 ESCP-EAP LONDON

Name Sonja Esterhuyse Falck Type Therapist County London - North West Telephone 020 7435 6806 Email [email protected] Address London NW3 Code of Ethics BACP, Constituent of UKCP Registered with: BACP, UKCP (PA) Qualifications BACP Reg Counsellor, 2000; B Soc Sc (Hons) Clinical Psychology, 1990;MA Psychoanalysis, 1996; PA (UKCP) Psychotherapy Training, 2002 Experience/Specialist Anxiety, Depression, Interest Relationships Identified as: Psychotherapist Sees: Couples, Individuals Work practice Long- and short-term face-to-face work Additional Information A South African now settled in London Fees Fees start at £45

Name M arlies Kisch Type Therapist County London - North West Telephone 020 7267 8356 Address LONDON, NW3 R egistered w ith: BACP, U KCP (FPC), U KRC Code of Ethics: BACP, Constituent of UKCP Q ualifications BACP Reg Counsellor, 1999; Cert Couns Skills & Attitudes, 1990; Dip Adv Psychodynamic Couns, 1994; Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy Training, 2002 Experience/Specialist Abuse, Anxiety, Cultural Interest issues, D epression, Identity problems, Relationships, Sexuality, Sexual problems, Stress, Low self esteem Identified as: Counsellor, Psychotherapist Sees: Individuals Theoretical Approach: Eclectic, Psychodynam ic Languages: Swiss German, German W ork practice: Long-term face-to-face work Fees: £35 to £45, some concessions available

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 36

Name Marian Phillips Type Therapist County London – North West Telephone 020 8458 2772 Email [email protected] Address LONDON, NW3 Registered with: BACP, BPS C Cllg Psychol, UKRC Code of Ethics: BACP, BPS Qualifications BACP Reg Counsellor, 1984; BSc (Hons) Psychology, 1979; MSc Couns Psychology, 1992; Chartered Couns Psychologist, 1992; Assoc Fellow BPS, 1996 Experience/Specialist Anxiety, Bereavement, Cultural issues, Interest Depression, Eating disorders, Health related, Identity problems, Obsessions, Phobias, Post-traumatic stress, Relationships, Sexual identity, Sexual problems, Sexuality, Stress Identified as: Counselling Psychologist Sees: Couples, Families, Groups, Individuals Work practice: Long- and short-term face-to-face work Theoretical Approach: Integrative, Person-centred, Psychodynamic Fees £40 to £50

PAGE 37 ESCP-EAP LONDON

Lost Property

Property found . . .

• on the underground is kept at the station for two days.

• on buses is kept at the nearest bus station/garage to the route on which it was lost for four days.

• in a taxi should have been handed to the police station by the taxi driver within seven days.

• on Docklands Light Railway is kept at the security office at Poplar Station (contactable 24 hours a day on 020 7363 9550) for forty-eight hours.

• at or to Victoria Coach Station is kept at the help desk (contactable between the opening hours listed in the transport section.)

. . . until it is passed to the central Lost Property Office. They are contactable on 0845 330 9882 between 08:30 to 16:00, Monday to Friday (excluding bank holi- days).

Lost property at the School is held at the reception desk.

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 38

Finally

One of the old sayings in management is that ‘you can never be too prepared’ – and this is probably some good advice to take. Whilst we don’t want to nag you about any of this stuff, we certainly want to try and make everything that ESCP-EAP students have had difficulties with in the past easier for you. A lot of what is writ- ten here may not be useful to some of you – to others, it probably is.

Either way, hopefully this guide has given you some valuable information, or can be put to good use in the future. If it hasn’t, then don’t forget to ask any of us what you want to know – it’s one of the reasons we’re here!

Like we said at the start, settling in to life at a new School in a new country can be a difficult and daunting task, but it’s perfectly possible to keep everything under control.

Don’t forget to check the website regularly for updates, and always get in contact with the School if you’re unsure about anything. Above all, we hope you enjoy the ESCP-EAP experience and that you have a wonderful time living in London.

It’s not as hard as it seems…honest!

PAGE 39 ESCP-EAP LONDON

USEFUL NUMBERS……...

HSBC BANK 122 Finchley Road London NW3 5JD Tel (via call centre): 08457 404404 Fax: 020 7200 1340

YOUTH HOSTEL ASSOCIATION 4 Wellgarth Rd Golders Green London NW11 7HR Tel: +44 208458 9054 Fax: +44 208209 0546 Email: [email protected]

ESTATE AGENTS

Alexanders Estate Agents 337 West End Lane West Hampstead London NW6 1RS Tel: +44 2074310666 Fax: +44 2077940620 http://www.homesandinvestments.co.uk

Estate Angels 459 Finchley Road Hampstead London NW3 6HN Tel: +44 207 794 7744 Email: [email protected] www.estateangels.co.uk

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 40

Frognall Estates 283 Finchley Road London NW3 6ND Tel: +44 207431 7070 Email: [email protected] www.frognal.co.uk

Millennium Residential 517 Finchley Road Hampstead London, NW3 7BB Tel: +44 2077940400 Fax: +44 2077945222 Email:[email protected] www.millenniumresidential.com

Kinglseys Estates 92 Golders Green Road London NW11 8HB Tel: +44 2084583333 Fax: +44 2084587090 Email: [email protected] www.kingsleys-estates.co.uk

TV LICENCE ENQUIRIES Customer Services TV Licensing Bristol BS98 1TL www.tvlicencing.co.uk

PAGE 41 ESCP-EAP LONDON

UK VISAS Foreign and Commonwealth Office King Charles Street London SW1A 2AH Tel: +44 2070088438 Fax: +44 2070088359 http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk

IMMIGRATION & NATIONALITY DIRECTORATE (for visa extensions/individuals already residing in the UK) Lunar House 40 Wellesley Road Croydon CR9 2BY Tel: +44 8706067766 www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk

WORK PERMITS Customer Relations Team PO BOX 3468 Sheffield Tel: +44 1142591894 Fax: +44 1142593827

INLAND REVENUE General enquiries – +44 2076674001 Camden Branch - +44 8453000627

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 42

GOING OUT

Walkabout 255 Finchley Road London NW6 1NN Tel : +44 2074336570

The Crown 142-152 Cricklewood Broadway London NW2 3ED Tel: +44 2084524175

Cane Bar 283 West End Lane London NW6 1RD Tel: +44 2077947817

Sirous Tapas bar and Restaurant 268 West End Lane London NW6 1LJ Tel: +44 2074358164

Latelys 175 West End Lane London NW6 1RD Tel: 020 7625 6474

BOOKSHOP

West End Lane Books, 277 West End Lane, West Hampstead, NW6. Tel: 020-7431-3770. www.welbooks.co.uk

PAGE 43 ESCP-EAP LONDON

CINEMAS

Here is a mixture of conventional and Art house cinemas;

Screen on the Hill 203 Haverstock Hill London NW3 4QG Tel: 020 7435 3366

Everyman Hampstead 1 Holly Bush Vale London NW3 6TX Tel: 0870 066 4777

Finchley Road Vue 241-279 O2 Centre London NW3 6LU Tel: 0871 224 0240

Odeon Swiss Cottage 96 Finchley rd London NW3 5EL Tel: 0871 224 4007

Prince Charles Cinema Tickets start from £1.50 7 Leicester Place (just off Leicester Square - up from Häagen-Dazs) Tel: 020 7494 3654

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 44

THEATRES

Hampstead Theatre Eton Avenue Swiss Cottage NW3 3EU Tel: 020 7722 9301

Tricycle Theatre 269 Kilburn High Road London NW6 7JR Tel: 020 7328 1000 [email protected]

Upstairs at The Gatehouse Hampstead Lane London N6 4BD Tel: 020 8340 3488

GALLERYS

Belgrave Gallery 53 Englands Lane London NW3 4YD Tel: 0207 722 5150 E-Mail: [email protected]

Burgh House New End Square Hampstead London NW3 1LT Tel: 020 7431 0144

PAGE 45 ESCP-EAP LONDON

Tate Modern Bankside London SE1 9TG

Tate Britain Millbank London SW1P 4RG Tel: 020 7887 8000

Royal Academy of the Arts Burlington House Picaddilly OBD Tel: 020 7300 8000

MUSEUMS

Freud Museum 20 Maresfield Gardens London NW3 5SX tel: +44 2074352002 fax: +44 2074315452 email: [email protected]

Museum of Jewish Life 80 East End Road London N3 2SY Tel: +44 2083491143 Fax: +44 2083432162

Royal Air Force Museum London Grahame Park Way London, NW9 5LL [email protected] Tel: +44 2082052266

PAGE 46 ESCP-EAP LONDON

GYMS

Holmes Place 108-110 Cricklewood Lane London NW2 2DS Tel: +44 (0)20 8453 7200 Fax: +44 (0)20 8450 6776

Esporta O2 Centre 255 Finchley Road London NW3 6LU Tel: 020 7644 2400

TAXIS

R Jethwa 311 Finchley Road London NW3 6EH Tel: (020 7794 9231)

Paddington Car Hire 311 Finchley Road London NW3 6EH Tel: (020 7262 0969)

Cricklewood Cars 311 Finchley Road London NW3 6EH Tel: (020 8830 9999)

ESCP-EAP LONDON PAGE 47

RESTAURANTS

Walnut 280 West End Lane West Hampstead London NW6 1LJ Tel: 020 7794 7772.

Gourmet Burger Kitchen 331 West End Lane West Hampstead London NW6 1RS Tel: 020 7794 5455.

Dona Olga 4 Kingsgate Place London NW6 4TA Tel: 020 7624 3831

POLICE STATION

West Hampstead Police Station 21 Fortune Green Road London NW6 1DX Tel: 020 8733 6848 Fax: 020 8733 6890

LOST PROPERTY

Tel: 0845 330 9882

PAGE 48 ESCP-EAP LONDON

ESCP-EAP LONDON

ESCP-EAP European School of Management 527 Finchley Road Hampstead LONDON, NW3 7BG United Kingdom Phone: +44 (0)20 7443 8880 Fax: +44 (0)20 7443 8845 Email: [email protected]