Things I wish someone had told me when I first moved to England

Moving to England for my studies was exciting, life-changing, and occasionally confusing. Looking back, there are a few things I wish someone had warned me about before I arrived. If you're an international student preparing for your UK adventure, this one is for you.

Don't forget the shower filter

This might sound dramatic, but your hair will thank you later! The water in many parts of the UK is considered hard water, meaning it contains higher levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. If you're coming from Gulf Cooperation Council Countries or tropical countries where the water composition is different, you may notice changes in your hair and skin. I personally experienced more dryness and changes in my hair texture after moving here. Investing in a shower filter with multiple filtration layers can help minimise the effects of hard water and become one of those small purchases that make a big difference. Trust me, you will be grateful.

Vitamin D is not optional

After a month or two in England, you might suddenly feel tired, unmotivated, or emotionally overwhelmed. You may think: "Am I homesick?". Maybe, but maybe it's also the weather. The long grey days, frequent rain, and reduced sunlight can affect your mood more than you expect. Taking Vitamin D supplements (after consulting a healthcare professional if needed) can be incredibly helpful. Sometimes it's not your degree, your flatmates, or your life choices. Sometimes, it's just the lack of sunshine.

British walking distances are a social experiment

If a local tells you: "Oh, it's only a five-minute walk away", please prepare yourself emotionally. That "five-minute walk" may somehow turn into fifteen or twenty minutes, involving hills, unexpected stairs, and weather conditions that deserve their own category. My advice? Invest in comfortable trainers. You will walk much more than you expect. Over time, 10,000 steps a day may become your new normal without you even noticing. Your feet deserve support.

These are simply my personal experiences and perspective as an international student navigating life in England. Everyone's journey is different, but I hope these small insights make yours a little easier. There are more advanced lessons to come - the things nobody prepares you for emotionally, socially, and academically. Until then, take your Vitamin D, invest in a shower filter, and never trust British walking estimates!