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If you are planning to spend time studying abroad, there is no place like London for receiving a wholesome and inspiring student experience. But while you have most likely read up on the programme you have applied for, as well as researched all the good pubs and entertainment venues, one aspect of your international student experience you may have wondered less about is your student accommodation. London offers a wide variety of options for you, but two which are definitely worth considering are the homestay and the hall of residence. Homestay If you are looking to imbibe some of the local culture during your studies, a good way to do so is by staying with a local family. The advantages of such an arrangement are numerous. Firstly, you will observe and take part in the local way of life: a thrilling experience which enriches your cultural perspective. Another obvious advantage has to do with language. If you are coming to Britain from abroad and English is not your native language, staying with a native British family is a perfect opportunity to brush up on your English. Often many classroom learners are intimidated by the prospect of speaking the language. Ironically, studies show that a good way to learn to speak a language, is not to be given any other choice but to speak the language. Staying with native English speakers for a couple of months is therefore worth more than years of classroom training. Another advantage of the homestay to consider when deciding on your student accommodation: Londoners are kind, hospitable people who take pride in the cleanliness and security of their homes. If this is your first taste of living away from your parents, living with a family, with its edifying measure of supervision, may provide a healthy transition to independent living. Halls of Residence If, on the other hand, you are craving complete freedom and the ultimate international student experience, you had better stay at a hall of residence. There you can enjoy the luxury of modern furnishing, your own room and private bath as well as strong reliable WiFi connection. Aside from material benefits however, what makes halls ideal for students is the opportunity to meet people of a similar age in the same student accommodation. London being one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, you are likely to encounter students from the farthest corners of the world living under the same roof, exchanging ideas, befriending each other and having fun together. Besides the endless parties and the heaps of friends, when exams are looming large, another benefit of living in a hall of residence is always having a partner to study with, a friend to borrow lecture notes from, or in the worst-case scenario, a shoulder to cry on, only a door-knock away. Living amongst your peers also lends you a fantastic opportunity to get a taste of a vast number of interesting hobby and sporting activities available throughout London. Whether you choose a private home or hall of residence as your student accommodation, London is going to open its arms and embrace you heartily during your studies. Don’t forget to give yourself a break from textbooks and explore its fascinating society and culture. Author Plate Sophie Smith works as an independent consultant, specialising in offering advice on London student accommodation. London offers an unbeatable experience for international students, and Sophie has many suggestions to make sure that their time in the city is positive, safe and enjoyable.
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