Living in London

Housing and meals

Hollins Abroad-London offers three housing options. Most students choose to live with British hosts, to learn in depth about the British way of life and share a lively cultural exchange. Students who choose this option have a friendly "home" environment but are treated as independent adults with their own space and key to the home. Our hosts live in residential areas of the city near neighborhood centers with shops, cinemas, restaurants, and pubs. Students in homestays are provided with all breakfasts and three dinners per week by their British hosts and are given a cash allowance by Hollins Abroad for all other meals. They also receive a free pass for the London tube and bus system.

A second option is International Students House, a residence hall complex in central London housing students from all over the world. ISH has its own dining hall, cybercafe, and exercise room. It is located on Great Portland Street, within walking distance of Connaught Hall. Breakfasts and lunches are provided for students living in ISH.

When you are admitted to the program, you'll receive detailed information on each housing option and can choose the one that best suits your preferences.

Student life

Connaught Hall has social spaces and a garden, where Hollins Abroad students can relax and meet the British and international students who live on the upper floors of the building. All Hollins Abroad students are members of the University of London Student Union and International Students House, both within easy walking distance of Connaught Hall. The Union and ISH are gathering places for students, with restaurants, shops, pubs, and athletic facilities. The Union is headquarters for dozens of student clubs and organizations, which Hollins Abroad students can join. ISH offers weekly social events and inexpensive student trips.

Travel

In addition to the Hollins Abroad class field trips, there is also a guided group trip outside London each term. You'll spend two days exploring Bath and the Cotswolds, York, Edinburgh, or a similar site. The cost of this trip is included in the Hollins Abroad comprehensive fee.

The director also organizes an optional trip each term to a city on the European continent chosen by program participants. Recent destinations have included Venice, Prague, Barcelona, and Salzburg. The cost of this trip, which includes both guided tours and free time to explore, is generally under $500, including airfare, hotel, breakfasts, tours, and entry fees.

Each term includes a one-week break for travel on your own. The director has guidebooks and travel information and is happy to advise you on your travel plans.