International Student LifeStyle in the United Kingdom

Choosing to study abroad is one of the most impactful decisions in a student’s life. If you are an international student going to the UK, the experience can be truly overwhelming. The United Kingdom is an exclusive mix of contemporary culture and historical relics. As an international student, you will find yourself surrounded by opportunities to make lifelong connections, explore exotic places and try out lip-smacking cuisines.

However, all of this is possible only if you select the right kind of student apartment. The perfect student flat will provide you with all the necessities of life so that you can focus your attention on excelling in academics and absorbing a vibrant culture. This article will put forward a mirror image of what life can be for international students in the UK.

Food Patterns

Despite the amount of research you do before stepping on foreign land, culture shock is inevitable for international students in the UK. Food is the first element of lifestyle that students miss the most about home. But the UK has an extensive variety when it comes to catering to taste buds.

Check out Food Markets

Over the last few years, the UK has seen an influx of food markets selling fresh, local produce at affordable prices. The variety is wide and the pocket pinch is minimum. Especially if you are staying in a shared student home, food markets are the most practical way to decide on the daily cuisine with your roommate.

Opt for Takeaways

Takeaways are a great way to bond with your friends and peers at your student housing. Keep an eye on the various takeaway offers that are available exclusively for students. Delivery services like Just Eat, Hungry House, Uber Eats and many others are some of the best options when it comes to budget takeaways at your student apartment.

Try Cooking Yourself

The communal kitchen is a common feature in student studios in the UK. You can utilize the student hall to bond with your housemates overcooking. One of the perks of living with people from diverse backgrounds in learning about local cuisines. You can always ask your student room flatmate to show you some of their indigenous dishes.

Entertainment

Whether you are living in London or in the countryside, there is no dearth of entertainment options in the UK. Some of the popular entertainment spots you should visit as a first-timer are.

Castle Tours

No country in the world is home to majestic Victorian-style castles like the UK. From London to areas near the coast, the UK is spotted with historical structures like the Edinburgh and Warwick Castle. There are websites that organize castle tours. Newbies can always book their way through such agencies which offer handsome discounts to University students.

Home of World Music

The UK is home to some of the best styles of world music like pop, jazz, classical, rock and electro to name a few. Students can explore the music scene at independent cafes or at international concerts. For better access to entertainment areas, be sure to select a student flat that is located conveniently.

Explore Global Festivals

The United Kingdom is famous for its vibrant festivals throughout the year. From the Viking Festival in York to the Burns Night festival in Scotland, students can indulge in fun and frolic during these occasions. Most of them have an array of activities and are easy on the pocket. Apart from this, the UK has a thriving nightlife for students to splurge in once in a while. From local craft beers to hip clubs, the options are endless. However, it again comes down to an aptly located student home which allows for easy access to such festivals and clubs.

Leisure Activities

Not all forms of entertainment in the UK require a hefty bill. There are a plethora of leisurely things for international students to do  – free of cost. The perfect student flat will facilitate such activities after a stressful week in the University. From the mountains of Scotland to the rolling hills of England, the UK is a paradise for hikers. Students can indulge in mountain biking or cycling. Universities in the UK offer a range of sports activities. Student hall in accommodations come fully equipped with common lounges and bbq joints for in-house leisure activities.

Safety for International Students

Universities and private accommodations in the UK are known for their security measures. However, it would not hurt to take some extra precautions when it comes to student safety.

Staying Alert when Outdoors

It is feasible for international students to avoid late-night walks alone. Try to travel through well-lit streets and carry emergency cash at all times. It is not advisable to accept a ride from strangers.

Research Safety of Neighbourhood

Before settling on your student housing, be sure to research the neighbourhood and its safety measures.

Keep Safe Indoors

As an international student, your most important belongings are documents like your passport, visa papers, immigration, etc. Check-in with your student home about services like CCTV cameras and key systems to ensure the safety of your things at the student flat. Keep contact numbers of the local police, roommates, and universities on your speed dial.

Social Rules and Regulations

People and institutions in the UK are keen on social rules. Knowing them beforehand will aid international students to connect better with the community.

Time

The British are keen on punctuality and being late is generally frowned upon. It is important to maintain time not only in universities but in social gatherings as well. It is advisable to choose a student studio that is located conveniently from your university and other social places.

Etiquette

British people appreciate polite manners in everyday life. Be sure to thank people for their services or apologize for mistakes.

Discipline

Few places are as organized as the UK. From queuing up in front of shops to keeping the neighborhood clean, you must follow common community discipline for a better first impression.

Studying in the UK is a life-altering experience that prepares students for global challenges. Apart from these pointers, an excellent university and the perfect student home will make your journey as an international student in the UK a memorable one.