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Choosing your very first student accommodation when studying abroad can be a challenging task, and it’s safe to say some options certainly aren’t for everyone – particularly when it comes to a homestay. London student life often starts out with accommodation in halls of residence or shared student houses, but with a homestay you’ll experience something completely different. Here are some of the general pros and cons to help you decide whether this is an option you should consider. Pros • You might not want to spend every hour of your life with other students, so being able to interact with your homestay family instead can offer a pleasant alternative. Living in student accommodation can be tiresome for those who don’t want to stay up until the early hours partying, whereas if you live with a family, you will probably have quite a similar experience to living at home with your own parents. • With a homestay, London can actually become much more accessible. Being around people who know the city like the back of their hand gives you a huge advantage when it comes to exploring. You can spend your free time enjoying free guided tours from your hosts – then introduce your classmates to the hidden gems around London! • You will have the chance to feel like part of a family unit and be surrounded by an immensely supportive network. Hosts usually invite their guests to join evening meals, nights in or days out, so you will soon get to know the family. This can be hugely comforting, especially for international students. Cons • Many homestay houses are located quite a distance from the universities, when compared to the convenience of on-campus accommodation. You may feel a little detached from the other students, as many of them will be living together in the same place. • Cost can be a huge factor when deciding whether or not to opt for a homestay. London prices are high wherever you end up, but since the homestay costs are set by the families themselves, prices may be higher than you’re expecting. Sometimes they turn out to be cheaper than halls of residence, but you may find yourself in a situation where the host expects a contribution from you towards toiletries, groceries etc. You need to weigh it all up before making a commitment. • Another problem for some students is adapting to the lifestyle of an unfamiliar family. As well as potential cultural differences, you may have to follow new rules that were never put in place in your own home. Things like helping with the dishes and cleaning may be difficult to get used to if you haven’t had to do it before. With luck you’re now a little clearer about a few of the advantages and disadvantages of a homestay. London has so much to offer when it comes to student accommodation, but making sure you choose the option that’s right for you is of the utmost importance. Author Plate 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.
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