No Place Like Home: Tips for Students Moving to London

If you’re a student soon to be starting a new life in London, you might be feeling a little nervous or overwhelmed. However, it’s important to keep in mind that a lot of people are in the same boat – you definitely won’t be the only one missing home or occasionally feeling a little down.

The good news is, there are plenty of things you can try to help lessen your homesickness. These three simple solutions could work wonders and make you feel much more at home in London…

Get Out and Get Active

The worst thing you can do if you’re feeling sorry for yourself is remain isolated in your room until potatoes start sprouting from your ears. Put some clean clothes on, get some fresh air and explore the bustling streets of the city. It’d be a crime not to enjoy the wonders that this amazing place has to offer! Plus, exploring your new surroundings will eventually make them more familiar, and consequently you will feel much more comfortable.

If sightseeing doesn’t take your fancy, why not join a sports club or try a fitness class? Your physical health is just as important as your mental health, and staying in control of your fitness and wellbeing is vital. Joining a club will not only give you an excuse to leave your room a couple of times a week, but you’re also likely to meet new people and burn off some pent-up emotions.

Give Yourself Time

Moving away is a huge life step, and many students don’t expect to feel the anxiety that they so often do. It’s important that you give yourself as much time as you need to adjust to your new lifestyle and that you don’t pressure yourself into feeling comfortable straight away.

Staying positive is also a significant part of this step – you mustn’t beat yourself up about missing home. Plus, if you remain in a positive mind-set, it often makes you good company. This will make it a lot easier for you to find new friends and subsequently feel more at home in your new environment.

Be Around Home Comforts

Make sure to call your family members once in a while, but not so often that you don’t have time for anything else. Having some special personal belongings with you can also make a huge difference if you’re feeling isolated, so be sure to bring a few of your favourite items from home.

Another great option is a homestay. London student accommodation providers often give you the choice of a homestay, which allows you to lodge with a host family. This is sure to make you feel a lot more relaxed, as you will be living alongside people who have been in London for several years. If you’re thinking about a homestay, London has various hosts available – all you’ll need to do is contact an accommodation provider.

Don’t fret about your big move – whether you’re in a shared flat in the city centre, a halls of residence near your school or a family homestay, London will offer more opportunities than you can shake a stick at. 

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Sophie Smith works as an independent consultant, specialising in offering advice on London student accommodation ranging from the Hall of Residence to an apartment to a homestay. 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.