Studying abroad can be one of the most exciting chapters that a student will experience during their years in higher education. Gaining academic knowledge whilst exploring a different culture is a highlight in itself that only a percentage of students across the world have the opportunity to say they’ve experienced it. However, it is normal to feel nervous pre-arrival and have a number of questions about living in London. Therefore, this article will give you all the tips you need to make your days as smooth as possible.
Transport
Londoners heavily rely on public transport, unlike the states where it is common for a student to have a car. In London, people use public transport to commute to work or school. The average duration of a journey can be up to 60 minutes for an individual. Transport is very regular here with trains and buses arriving every 2-7mins. If your placement or study centre is a 20 min walk, it may be the best route to take. In London, if your job/school is a 20min walk, some will say “your laughing mate.” This means that you are lucky and don’t have to wake up as early as others.
Strikes
Occasionally there will be strikes in London that can last up to two days. This is when union members that work in the transport sector go on strike to demand more pay. In this case, there is usually a delay in transport or a diversion in routes. However, members of the public are always notified in advance which gives them the chance to plan their routes. Strikes are very normal here and your employer or lecturer is always aware if one is due to take place.
Air conditioners
At the Anglo Educational study centre, it has been made a priority that all rooms have built-in Air conditioners. However, it is important to be aware that not all buildings have built-in ACs in London. This is due to the fact that the hot weather in the city is very minimal and mainly lasts for a duration of 3 months.
Mini Fans
If you are coming to London during the summer season, it would be advised to order a mini portable fan. They are easy to find on Amazon and are affordable with prices starting from $11.
Sim cards
If you don’t get the chance to set up a phone plan, don’t panic! Sim cards are easily accessible in the UK where you can set up a monthly plan very quickly. Many of our students for the Fall semester this year set up phone plans with the Giff Gaff network. Giff Gaff offers monthly bundles which feature up to 100GB, unlimited minutes, and texts all for £20. One of the main factors that attracted students to Giff Gaff is that it is there is a No-Contract policy which means you to cancel or change your plan at any time. Also, Giff-Gaff allows their customers to use up to 5GB of data in European countries with no extra cost.
Communicate with your Bank
The last thing you want is for your bank card to stop working abroad!
Before starting your placement notify your bank that you will be using your card abroad. Make sure you find out all the information you need to know about international and transaction fees. It is important to inform your bank about these changes as there have been cases where students’ bank cards have stopped working.
Bring an adapter
If you didn’t know the sockets in the U.K. are Type G which means they are completely different from the ones in U.S. Therefore, it is recommended to bring an adapter as you should not expect apartments or hotels to provide them for you.