2013
SMU – in - London
Dr. Rita Kirk, Director
This packet is designed to provide the basic information you need to
make the London summer program a success. Please review it
carefully and keep it with you!
Southern Methodist University
Dr. Rita Kirk, Program Director
817-975-0686
rkirk@smu.edu
Lisa Goodson
Assistant Program Director
214-768-2775
lisag@smu.edu
SMU-in-London
Summer 2013
Summer 2013 Program Faculty:
Professor Rita Kirk, Ph.D., Director: rkirk@smu.edu
Professor Brice Campbell, Executive-in-Residence, Temerlin Advertising Institute,
campbellb@smu.edu
Professor Maria Dixon, Ph.D., Communication Studies, madixon@smu.edu
Professor Tony Pederson: tpederso@smu.edu
Assistant Director Lisa Goodson: lisag@smu.edu
CLASSES:
Classes will meet Monday-Thursday according to the following schedule: (Note: Some
classes run longer on certain days to accommodate films, guest lectures or field trips.
Classes may also be held certain afternoons and evenings as listed on the syllabus. Be
flexible and remember that Monday-Thursdays are heavily scheduled so we can give
you a couple of weekends to travel.)
9:00-10:30
ADV 5301 Topics in Advertising: International Advertising — Professor Brice
Campbell, Executive-in-Residence, Temerlin Advertising Institute
COMM 4310 History & Philosophy of Free Speech — Dr. Rita Kirk, Director, Maguire
Ethics Center and Professor of Communication
10:45-12:15
COMM 3321 Communication in Global Contexts — Dr. Maria Dixon, Associate
Professor, Communication Studies
CCJN 3345 Mass Media in Great Britain: Politics, Pin-ups & Propaganda —
Professor Tony Pederson, Belo Distinguished Chair of Journalism
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GENERAL INFORMATION AND ADVICE
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Students must arrive at Regent’s College by 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 25, and
must check out of Regent’s College dorms by 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 29.
Bring minimal jewelry and other valuables. Be sure that all jewelry and valuables are
“scheduled” on your or your parent’s homeowner insurance policies prior to
departure.
We urge all students to obtain an International Student Identity Card through the
International Programs Office or through your travel agent. It offers inexpensive
European and English travel arrangements.
If you are making weekend travel plans, be sure and fill out the form located in this
booklet letting us know where you are heading, who you are going with/visiting, and
where you will be staying. You may not leave until after the last scheduled event on
Thursday. NO EXCEPTIONS. All students must return to Regent’s by 10:00 p.m.
Sunday night and be in class Monday morning. The Student Services office at
Regent’s is helpful in planning weekend trips.
Attendance for any scheduled day trips, theater outings, field trips, and cultural
activities are mandatory. There are also scheduled non-mandatory trips. See the
calendar.
If you plan to have any guests visit you during your stay in London, they are not
allowed to stay at Reid Hall. Your guests should find lodging in London. Please
make sure your guests understand that you are expected to be present for all
classes and other activities. Parents or family members who wish to meet you in
London should do so before or after the program. There is little time for you to meet
with them during the program.
Faculty members may lead weekend day trips to other locations in the U. K.
Students who participate in any of these optional trips must pay their own expenses.
PROGRAM INFORMATION
All inquiries concerning program details, and all communications concerning
cancellations, changes in any student travel plans, emergencies, and all checks for
program payments, should be addressed to:
International Center/Study Abroad
P.O. Box 750391
6185 Airline Drive, Suite 216
Dallas, TX 75275-0391
(214) 768-2338
Please make sure your parents have the International Programs Office information
while you are away. The website is: http://smu.edu/studyabroad
Program Mailing Address
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If someone wants to send mail to you:
(Your Name)
Reid Hall
Regent’s College
Inner Circle, Regent’s Park
London NW1 4NS
United Kingdom
Telephone—Regent’s College
To call from the U. S., the number is 011-44-20-7487-7495. Your call will be transferred
to Reid Hall (the dorms). There are telephones in each hallway in Reid Hall, but there
are not individual phones in each room. The fax is 011-44-20-7487-7602.
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When calling the U. S. dial 001 + area code + telephone number. British rates
are generally much higher. Remember when calling that the U. K. is six hours
ahead of Dallas time (e.g., 12:00 noon in Dallas is 6:00 p.m. in London).
When calling the UK from the US dial: 001 – 44 + area code + phone number.
To phone another country from London dial: 00 + country code + area code +
telephone number.
Access codes to reach American Operators:
AT&T 0800-89-0011
SPRINT 0900-89-0877
Internet
Students may use the computers in the Information Technology Center or the Library to
check email. It is not necessary to bring laptops, since there are several work stations
around campus with access to computers. That said, your laptop is useful if you want to
work in your room or outside in one of the beautiful secluded parks within the college
grounds. Wireless Internet service is available on campus in certain limited areas.
TRAVEL
Travel arrangements are the responsibility of each individual student. You do not have
to travel on the group flight, but for safety and convenience we have arranged for group
departure/return flights from D/FW. Those who did not meet the early deadline imposed
by the airlines can still book this flight. We strongly recommend that you arrive at the
same time or slightly before the group flight so that you can take advantage of the bus
that will pick up the group at the airport. Otherwise, the Heathrow Express is your
option into London’s Paddington Station, then a taxi to Regent’s College from there.
Group Flight Schedule: TBD
Friday, May 24, 2013 – depart DFW -- arrive London Heathrow (LHR) Saturday, May 25
Saturday, June 29, 2013 – depart @. – arrive DFW same day
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How to Book the Group Flight:
To secure a seat on the SMU London Group Flight, you must take the following action:
 Contact Ms. Lisa Knowles at Colwick Travel (972-387-5757 X215) to book your
travel
 Let her know you are traveling on the SMU London Group Flight
 Be sure to give her your AA frequent flyer number if you have one and your
name as appears on your Drivers License. She will also need your passport
number.
 Once you receive your confirmation via email, be sure to check it for accuracy
(mistakes happen so pay attention to detail as you book your flights)
 Again, each student will book their Group flight airfare independently with
Colwick Travel; ask for Ms. Lisa Knowles
Arriving in London
Group transportation from the airport. Once we arrive in London and clear
customs/immigration, a coach (bus) will take you directly to Reid Hall on the campus of
Regent’s College. Please note that this is NOT available if you do not travel on the
group flight or arrive before that time. If you are arriving on a separate flight and wish to
meet us, you MUST clear this in advance with Mrs. Kress or Dr. Kirk.
Upon arrival at the dorm, you will be given your room and hall keys, your meal pass,
and your transportation (Underground) pass. You will need to provide a cash deposit of
either $40 American dollars or £20 for your keys upon check-in; the money will be
refunded upon your departure. Be careful that you do not lose your keys and passes as
there will be additional charges to replace them.
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For those booking their own flights. If you are not part of the group flight, you will be
responsible for your own transportation to Regent’s from either Gatwick or Heathrow.
You have several options.
From Gatwick, the fastest way is to take the Gatwick Express, which travels from
the airport to Victoria Station in about 30 minutes (You can use your BritRail pass
for this). For details on Gatwick Airport, go to http://www.gatwick-airportguide.co.uk/transport.html. From Victoria train station, enter the adjacent Victoria
Underground station. Follow the signs to the Taxi stands and give the driver the
address to Regent’s College. Your taxi ride will run about £10. You will need to
have British pounds to pay the driver. Frankly, the taxi is your best bet when you
arrive tired and have luggage.
If you want to take the Underground or Tube, you need to buy a ticket at
the Tube station, located in Victoria Station. Travel north on the Victoria line to
the next station, Green Park, where you will transfer to the Jubilee line and ride
north to the Baker Street station. Then, walk to Regent’s College. The walk from
there is about seven minutes.
If you arrive at Heathrow, you can take the Heathrow Express train (You can use
your BritRail pass for this) to London’s Paddington station. This is a 15-minute
trip. For more details on Heathrow Airport, go to
http://www.londontoolkit.com/travel/heathrow.htm. From there take a taxi to
Regent’s College. (About £10). Frankly, the taxi is your best bet when you arrive
tired and have luggage.
If you opt to take the Tube, at Heathrow get on the Piccadilly line into
London, stopping at Green Park to switch trains. From there, you will transfer to
the Jubilee line and travel north to Baker Street. To get to Regent's College from
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the Baker Street tube station, head north up Baker Street after emerging from the
station. Baker Street, which intersects Allsop Place and Cornwall Terrace, leads
directly into Regent's Park. Almost immediately upon entering the park (at
Clarence Gate), you will cross a little bridge and find yourself on the perimeter of
the grounds of Regent's College. You can reach the main entrance by turning left
and circling around the grounds. Tell security at the reception desk that you are
part of the SMU group. From the reception desk at the main entrance, proceed
directly to the commons area of Reid Hall where you will check in at the dorm
desk.
Group Trips (Included in the program fees)
Big Bus Tour and River Tour of the Thames. We start the trip
Sunday, May 26, with this round the city hop on hop off bus tour.
This is great to help you get acclimated to the city.
Salisbury/Stonehenge, We will leave Friday for the short rail trip to
Salisbury, one of the oldest communities in Britain. You will use two days of your
BritRail pass for this trip. We will have a tour of the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral and
see the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta. This will be your first experience with
a hostel where you will stay the night. Turn in early (yeah, right) because we will divide
the group in two with half of you leaving at 4:00 a.m. to see sunrise at Stonehenge and
the other half leaving an hour later to enjoy the sun’s first hour. This is a once in a
lifetime event since as an educational group we are permitted inside the ring standing
among the stones. We will then take you back to the hostel to pick up your things and
you are off to explore. Enjoy the local markets, head a short way by train to visit historic
Bath, or return to London to enjoy the numerous markets there.
Scotland. We will leave for Scotland early Thursday, June TBD, by train. You will use
two days of your BritRail pass for this trip. Once we arrive, you will be taken to a hostel
where you will be spending the night. (Students will want to pack a light weekender bag
for this trip, something you can carry, because you’ll be carrying it all weekend.) We will
spend the afternoon learning about Scotland and its unique history. Students can opt
to take a tour throughout Scotland from Friday to Sunday on the famous Haggis Tour. It
costs £99 and includes transportation and lodging. It’s not required, but it is a great deal
and we strongly recommend this. You will return to London from Glasgow late Sunday
afternoon and travel through the beautiful Lake District. You will need additional money
for food and for tips for the driver and guide.
Dover. This trip takes us to the Southeast coast of England to the
historic cliffs of Dover. We will start at the White Cliffs, then head to Dover Castle, sight
of many pitched battles to protect English soil. Dover is the closest point to the coast of
France, which you can see from the White Cliffs on a clear day. During the Napoleonic
wars, tunnels were dug into the chalky hillside for cannon placement. In World War II,
the tunnels were expanded, and it is here that the military had its secret operation to
direct war operations. We will tour the historic caves, located at Dover Castle, to see
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how the propaganda campaign was implemented. Some will want to linger in the town
for a great seafood dinner while others may wish to head back on the next train.
Cambridge. We will leave early and return to London that evening. The trip begins
with a short tour of Immanuel College, the home of some of America’s earliest pioneers
and the site of one of Christopher Wren’s chapels. Students then have some time to
make their way through the campus, taking in the old chapels, colleges and the local
market before meeting the group again for a picnic lunch as we “punt the Cam” down
“the backs” of the colleges. This is one of the most picturesque views of Cambridge you
will find and the boat trip is a lot of fun. Finally, we will make our way to Grantchester
where will have tea at The Orchard, a place where intellectuals have gathered for
centuries to discuss great ideas. Ahhhh, Cambridge!
BRITRAIL PASSES
We require each student to purchase a BritRail pass before you
leave the United States. Students can save a substantial
amount of money by buying a BritRail pass, rather than
purchasing train tickets for occasional train travel in England.
Depending on class schedules, students can hop a train after
lunch and be at Windsor castle, Greenwich, Canterbury
Cathedral or a dozen other places near London in an hour by
train and still get back in time for dinner. On weekends students may want to catch a
train to the coast of England and stay overnight in Dover or Brighton beach. Or go north
by train and spend the weekend visiting the Lake District, Stratford-Upon-Avon, York,
Wales or Liverpool. Check the website for details and current specials at
http://www.britrail.com. See last page in this booklet for details about which pass to
purchase.
THREE-DAY WEEKENDS AND OTHER TRAVEL
Some of you may wish to travel away from London to explore areas on your own.
Please consult the calendar to find the open weekends for travel. In general, you
should plan to leave on Friday and be back in London by Sunday night. Note: you may
not miss classes or group events. No exceptions.
Procedures. We need to know where you will be going in case
of any emergency. Pick up a Weekend Travel Form from Ms
Lisa Goodson. Fill it out and give it to her before leaving. You
are expected to be back on campus by 10:00 p.m. Sunday night.
If you are unable to return for whatever reason, contact either
Ms. Goodson or Dr. Kirk immediately. Do not expect one of your classmates to relay
the message. You must speak with us yourself. Failure to file the form or to contact us
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in case of travel delays will result in your being grounded from further independent
travel.
Communicate!!!
We’ve got a few different ways of communicating with each other and
with those not with our program. Make sure to participate in some or
all of these.
 We will set up a Facebook site to post your pictures, organize activities, swap
information and tips, or comment in general. It’s private. You must be invited and
confirmed to access this site.
 Post articles about your travel experiences at SMU’s Student Adventures site:
http://www.smu.edu/smunews/adventures. For some students, submitting articles
is required.
What to Bring
Luggage. Pack light! Airlines allow you to check two bags, neither to exceed 55
pounds, and neither to measure more than 106 inches in width, height, and length. You
may also carry on with you a single bag, small enough to fit under your seat. (If you are
travelling on another airline, check for specific restrictions on weight and baggage
costs.) You will be responsible for your own luggage. There are no porters at Reid Hall
dorm, and no elevators. Don’t bring bags so heavy that you can’t handle them yourself!
Save some room in your luggage, because you will be buying some things for yourself
and friends and family back home. Shipping items from the UK is expensive, so allow
room for your purchases when you return. And make sure to take a backpack or
overnighter for short weekend jaunts.
Clothing: When packing clothing, remember to bring good walking shoes. (You will do
a LOT of walking. Girls, puulllllease avoid spiked heels!), a sweater or light jacket for
cool mornings and nights, and a lightweight compact umbrella is also a good idea. Pack
both long pants and shorts. The weather is hot one day, cold the next. Bring something
warm to wear in Scotland, where it can be freezing in June. You can dress casual for
class, as you would at SMU, but also bring at least one dressy outfit for the theatre, and
something you can wear when we go on field trips to professional offices. You will have
laundry facilities at the College.
Dressing to blend in: Avoid clothes that scream, "I am American." Leave home your
SMU t-shirts and jerseys, your Dallas Cowboys caps, etc.
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Weather: London’s average temperature during June ranges from 45 to 68 Fahrenheit.
But during our stay last summer the temperature went from scarf-and-gloves cold to
tank-top warm. In short, the weather in London is variable and unpredictable.
Appliances. The United Kingdom operates on a 240-voltage
system. Our appliances won’t work without a transformer, which
you can buy before you leave the states (Brookstone, Radio
Shack, Fry’s) or when you get to London. If you have a dual
voltage appliance, you may only need an adapter plug. Every year
someone burns up a hair dryer or curling iron or other appliance
because of the difference in voltage, so the folks at Regent’s
suggest roommates buy one inexpensive hairdryer in London to share, then leave it
behind if you don’t want to lug it home. Make sure you check at the desk to see if a
previous group has left one behind!
Towels and linens. Sheets are provided in the dorm, but some students prefer to bring
their own. Bring a set of twin sheets, a wash cloth and a large bath towel, then leave
them behind and use the space for souvenirs. Or, there is a Target-like shop where
you can buy sheets and towels there. A robe comes in handy since the shower is down
the hall. You may wish to consider leaving the towels behind so that you can have that
room for packing your souvenirs.
Passport. You must have a valid passport, in your possession, both to check in at the
airport and upon arrival in London. Do not pack your passport in your checked baggage!
Keep it with your carry-on items. Make at least three copies of your passport, leaving
one with Mrs. Kress, one with a friend or family member back in the U.S., one in your
packed suitcase. If you happen to lose your passport, you can replace it easier if you
have a photocopy of the original.
Money. While a number of things are provided in your program fee,
you will need additional money during your stay in London for extra
activities, travel, and shopping. The amount to bring varies with each
student and their anticipated expenses. It’s not a good idea to carry
a great deal of cash; better to use your ATM card to get money you
need on a regular basis. You may bring traveler’s checks, but students in the past have
had trouble cashing them in a timely manner. Check with your bank to make sure your
ATM card will work in Europe. Make sure you know your PIN. Some cards will not work,
so double check before you leave.
The British monetary unit is the pound sterling. At present, you should figure that
every pound equals about $1.60 in our money. You will find prices are very high in
London compared to the U.S. A Pizza Hut pizza may cost about $12 here, but in the
U.K. the same pizza will cost about £15, or about $21!
The pound comes in both coins and bills. Bills come in the following sizes: £50,
£20, £10, and £5. There is a £1 pound coin and a £2 pound coin, but it is becoming rare
to get one in change. 100 pence make one pound, and there are several coins. The one
and two-pence coins are known as “coppers.” You will also find a five-pence coin, a 1010
pence coin, a 20-pence coin, and a 50-pence coin. Do your best to learn the money as
quickly as you can.
Credit cards are widely accepted, although a few establishments only take cash.
You will find lots of signs for American Express, Visa, MasterCard—but none for the
Discover Card.
Guard your purse or wallet at all times, and don’t carry all of your cash and
credit/ATM cards in one location. Keep copies of your driver’s license, credit card, and
traveler’s check numbers in your room; it’s also a good idea to leave a copy of this
information with your family. Keep a list of phone numbers you can call if your
purse/wallet would happen to be stolen. Never leave your purse or wallet unattended.
Each year at least one student has a purse or backpack stolen – make sure it’s not you
this year!
Medications, Glasses, Contacts. Make sure you have any prescriptions or copies of
prescriptions that might need to be refilled while you are in London. The same goes for
contact lenses and glasses. You may want to bring allergy medications you prefer with
you; it’s not uncommon to develop a cold or sinus problems when visiting another
country.
Bring your own first aid kit. Going to the doctor overseas can be both very expensive
and difficult. You may be prescribed foreign medicines you aren’t used to that could
have bad side effects. So if you need prescriptions, talk to your doctor before you go
and get enough drugs (just in case) for however long you’ll be gone. You might bring a
small first aid kit with plenty of Band-Aids or Mole Skin (you’ll need them for blisters you
get from walking); Neosporin; Benadryl; ibuprofen; and whatever prescription
medications you may need.
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FOOD AND HOUSING
Our dormitory is Reid Hall, the only dormitory at Regent’s College. We do not fill up the
entire dorm. Other study-abroad programs are there at the same time, so you can
expect to meet other students from the U. S. and other countries.
The dormitory rooms are modest, but comfortable. Most rooms are designed for
two students. The bathrooms and showers are shared, but are single sex bathrooms.
There are no phones in the rooms, but there are phones in the hallways on each floor.
The direct number to the Reid Hall desk is: 020 7487 7485 or 02074877402
Aside from sleeping, you won’t spend much time in your dorm room! Don’t expect luxury
accommodations! Regent’s dorms are closer to Boaz Hall than Holiday Inn. The trash
gets emptied once a day. The beds have sheets and comforters (but many students
prefer to bring their own sheets.) As long as you are not expecting luxury these rooms
are adequate. Be advised that smoking is not allowed in the dorms.
In the U. K., the ground floor is what we would call the “first” floor, and the second floor
is the “first” floor and so on. As mentioned earlier, there are no elevators in the dorm, so
if you are on the third floor, you will have to carry your luggage up the stairs.
• WIFI internet access is available in the lobby of Reid Hall and in most rooms.
• A college representative is on duty at the front desk 24 hours a day.
• For security, students have swipe card access to the building and get a key to
their individual room.
• A member of the Student Services team also lives in the dorm so there is adult
supervision in the dorm at all times.
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The Refectory. Your program fee includes a meal plan. Meals are taken in the
Refectory or what we would call a cafeteria. You can order items ala carte, or obtain
specials of the day. You will be given the hours of operation at orientation. . Most
students will want to eat several meals out, which is fine. But remember you can save
money by eating breakfast and lunch at the refectory. Occasionally, you will want to
pack a sack lunch for an outing to save even more funds.
Campus Services. Located in or near the dormitory are laundry facilities, tennis courts,
a music room, a pub, a games room, a TV room, and an exercise room (small fee
required).
Campus Rules. The dorms are non-smoking. An orientation session will be held the
afternoon of our arrival in which the rules of the house will be explained, including “quiet
hours.” Pay particular attention about returning to campus late in the evening; do not
enter the park illegally or you may end up arrested!
Visit the Regent’s College website: http://www.regents.ac.uk
Student Services: Open 9-6 M-F. Students can buy Stamps, Phone Cards, borrow the
fax machine, book theatre tickets, borrow guidebooks, and rent camping equipment.
Students Services is also where the Accommodation officer is based for any issues with
meal cards, keys, etc.
Library: Open 9-9 M-F and 10-5 S-S. Students can borrow 6 books for 3 weeks,
overdue books are 10p/day overdue. No drinks, phones, food, and no downloading. A
limited number of black and white computer printouts are provided with your ID. Copy
cards are available to purchase, 15 units is £1 + £1 deposit for the card, and 75 units is
£5 + £1 deposit.
IT Centre. Open 9:30-8 M-Th, 9:30-5:30 F, and 12-6 S-S. No drinks, phones, food, and
no downloading. A limited number of black and white printouts are free; color printouts
are £1.50. There are a few scanners available to use.
Reid Desk: (The dorm) Open 9-6 M-F (staffed 24/7). Reid Desk is always staffed.
Laundry tokens can be purchased for £1.20 for washer and £0.60 for dry tokens during
office hours 9-6 M-F. Reid Desk also has a limited supply of blow dryers, irons, vacuum
cleaners and extra blankets to loan out. The computers in the lobby are for Regents
residents only.
Refectory: (Cafeteria) Open 8-7 M-F and 9-4 S-S. Hot Breakfast is 8-10, Lunch is 122, and dinner is 5-7. Between meals you can buy snacks and drinks. Meal cards have
£300 at the beginning of the trip, this is a declining balance based on what you buy from
the refectory. Money cannot be refunded from these cards. Over the years we have
been able to estimate the amount of food the group consumes so that we do not have to
overcharge the group for food based on the consumption of the more hungry among
you. Therefore, we will add or delete from the cards to make sure that everyone is fed
and no money is left on the cards when we leave.
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Internet Café: It is on campus near the Refectory. Open 9-5 M-F. No charge to use the
computers here.
Regent's Bookstore: Open 9-7 M-F and 10-3 Sat. Limited school supplies, postcards,
and phone top-up cards can be purchased at the campus bookstore, located in the
lobby of Herringham Hall. You can get Regents souvenirs here too.
Gym and Fitness Center: A new state of the art fitness centre with 22 stations is
situated near the dorms. It includes cardio-vascular machines (all equipped with cardio
theatre), weight stations, free-weights area as well as changing and shower facilities.
Opening times: Monday-Thursday: 10am - 8pm
Friday: 10am - 6pm; Saturday-Sunday: 12pm - 5pm
Off Campus Services
Internet Cafes: There are several just off campus in the Baker St. and Marylebone area.
 Net House Internet Café: Open 24/7. Membership cards are £2, but all prices are
negotiable for large groups. This 24 hour Internet café is located on Marylebone
near Baker Street. With a membership copies and Internet use are discounted.
Regular price for Internet use is £1 per 30 minutes and copies are £0.20 for black
and white and £1.50 for color.
 Kinkos: Open 24/7 Located off of the Holborn tube stop. Address: 326-328 High
Holborn Street, London, WC1V7PE. Tel: 44-171-539-2900 Fax: 44-171-5392901.
 Ryman’s Stationary: Open 8:30-6 M-F 9-6 Sat 12-6 Sun. This is a great place for
office supplies and stationary products. It's located just up Baker Street
 Student Phonecard Service: This is a good way to make phone calls while in
London. Buy £5, £10 or £20 cards to use with touchtone phones. You can pick
one up at the Baskin-Robbins (yes, the ice cream place…go figure.) on Baker St.
just off campus.
 Mail Boxes Etc. Located off of Marylebone High Street. Address: 78 Marylebone
High Street, Marylebone, London W1M 4AP. Tel: 0171 224 2666 Fax: 0171 224
2777. You might consider this if you need to ship something back to the U.S.
SAFETY
Remember that automobiles in the U.K. travel on the opposite side of the street from the
U. S. Therefore, exercise extreme caution in crossing any street. ALWAYS check both
to your right and left. It is against the law in the U.K. to cross streets except at public
crossings, which are easily recognized by the white crossing stripes. On many busy
intersections, you may not cross the street at the corner, but instead at a crossway
which may be 50-75 feet away. Remember, pedestrians DO NOT have the right-of-way
in London!
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While London and the U.K. are relatively safe insofar as crime is concerned, you
should use caution and good sense when out on your own. It is always wise to
tour/travel with at least one other person instead of going alone.
Pickpockets and thieves can be a problem, especially on
crowded buses and underground stations, and tourists are often
easy prey. Stay alert, and stay safe.
Cabs: Always take Official London Cabs. You will know the cab is
available for hire if the yellow light on the top of the cab is
illuminated. When taking a cab to Regent’s College, make sure to
ask for Regents Park "Inner Circle." At night the gates are closed so you have to go
quite a ways around to get into the park via cab. Do not jump the fence!
Tubes. Each of you will be given a tube pass to ride the subways and buses. Do not
exchange your tube pass with another person. Inspectors occasionally check for tube
passes, and if your pass does not match it will be confiscated. Failure to show your
pass will result in a large fine.
SMU In London Travel Safety Information
Dallas contacts:
 SMU's International Programs Office in Dallas (214) 768-2338.
 Website: www.smu.edu/studyabroad
o Contacts: SMU's Study Abroad: Person TBD
SMU-in-London contacts: Director of the SMU-in-London program, Dr. Rita Kirk
(rkirk@smu.edu)
Cell: ______________________
Assistant Director, Lisa Goodson (lisag@smu.edu)
Cell: ______________________
Regent's College: www.regents.ac.uk
Main Desk Telephone—Regent’s College: 011-44-20-7487-7495
Reid Hall Dorm front desk: 02074877402
There are telephones in each hallway in Reid Hall, but there are not individual
phones in each room. The fax is 011-44-20-7487-7602.
Regent’s Contact: Erin Snape
Short Courses Coordinator
T: 020 7487-7727 F: 020 7487-7425
E: snapee@regents.ac.uk
Address: Regent's College
Inner Circle, Regent's Park
London NW1 4NS
London emergencies: police, fire, ambulance: dial 999
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U.S. Embassy in London: Located on Grosvenor Square in Mayfair. If you are
traveling by London Underground, take the Central Line to Bond Street or Marble Arch.
Please visit the relevant section for information during opening hours. In case of an
emergency outside of business hours or during any suspension of public services,
Americans may reach the Embassy duty officer by calling 020-7499-9000.
For up-to-date information on security conditions call: 1-888-407-4747 in the U.S. and
outside the U.S. on a regular toll line at 317-472-2328. The Call Center is open 24/7.
For online information: www.usembassy.org.uk Or visit http://travel.state.gov.
U.S. Websites
U.S. Department of Homeland Security - www.dhs.gov
U.S. Department of State - http://travel.state.gov (travel warnings, consular
information sheets & links to other U.S. Embassy/Consulate sites around the
world
U.K. Websites
 U.K. Civil Contingencies Secretariat - www.ukresilience.gov.uk (information
about civil situations such as heightened security at airports, etc)
 Metropolitan Police - www.met.police.uk (crime & safety information, updates on
demonstrations. Also information on the Lifesavers Program - toll-free
confidential terrorist information hotline (0800-789-321) for reporting suspicious
people or activity callers feel may be related to terrorism.
In Case of Emergency:
All program participants will receive a sheet with the cell phone numbers of all faculty,
staff and students. Keep this with you at all times when you are away from the college.
In the event of an emergency, call or text Rita Kirk, Nancy Kress, or any of the
faculty. If you are unable to reach someone on the list, contact the main desk at
Regent’s College and leave a detailed message (020-7487-7495).
Healthcare
Soho NHS Walk-in Centre: Open 7:30-9 M-F 10-8 S-S.
If you get sick in England, the Soho NHS walk-in centre is clean, fast, and the visit is
free. You will have to pay for any medications, but they are available to purchase right
at the facilities. You will need to bring the address of where your staying, and they will
want to know your physicians name and address if you have it.
Marylebone Health Center:
Open 9-6 M-F closed 12-2 Wednesdays. Another option is the Marylebone Health
Center the hours are limited and it is by appointment only, but it is much closer to the
college.
More Basic Survival Tips
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Laundry: It can be very expensive and takes a lot of time. If you don’t want your laundry
thrown out of the dryer prematurely, bring a rope. Dryers take forever and often require
two sets of coins or more. If you bring the rope, you can fasten it to corners in your room
and dry your clothes naturally. And, you don’t have to worry about anyone messing with
your clothes. You save time, money, energy and your sanity if you remember this.
Don’t do laundry on the weekends unless you want to compete for the washers and
dryers.
Souvenirs: Be smart when buying any souvenirs. Make sure you don’t buy something
you can’t take home with you. If someone’s coming to visit you while you’re there, you
can send things home with them, if not, you’re on your own! Buy small things and don’t
spend too much money. Don’t feel like you have to buy something for everyone. Buy
English tea or toffee before you leave and you won’t disappoint.
Carry it on: On the flight bring a change of clothes, underwear, toothbrush and
toothpaste, deodorant in your carry on in case the airport loses your luggage. Also bring
this booklet.
School: Get as much reading done ahead of your trip as you can. In London, complete
assignments done early. Don’t put off. The more time you wait on doing assignments
the more stress builds. You could also miss out on fun things, so spend a couple of
hours every day working on your assignments to avoid stress. Plan to do some
research after lunch and right before dinner so you have evenings free to hang out with
friends. Academic assignments abroad are different from in America. There are fewer
assignments but that also means that they count more. Be prepared and pace yourself.
One-a-day rule: Plan to do one site-seeing thing per day. Five weeks will fly by. So
don’t waste your afternoons. Vitamins are good too!
Bring your laptop: You don’t have to bring one, since there are plenty of computers
you can use, and it can be a hassle, but many students say that having a laptop is a
major plus. Working on the slow computers in the IT Center (the computer lab) can be
very frustrating. If you bring a laptop, write papers on your laptop and then email it to
yourself to print in the IT Center. We provide a set amount for printing costs with your
tuition, but there is not enough for you to make extensive handouts.
No Cliques Policy: Sure, it is nice to go abroad with friends, but remember, the best
part of a study abroad experience is making new friends. This is an inclusive program.
Go out of your way to include people you don’t know. Everyone is responsible for
making sure that this is a positive experience for everyone else.
Discover Public Transportation. The Tube is fairly reliable but be prepared by looking
online ahead of time to check for delays and to find alternate routes. Here’s a link the
website for the London underground system and service updates:
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http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/livetravelnews/realtime/tube/default.html
Buses take longer but they’re better for getting a sense of where you are going. Allow
more time to get where you need to go, especially during rush hour.
Cultural Exposure: London is home to people from every country in the world. Explore
the neighborhoods, music and food of different countries. Go eat Indian food on Brick
Lane, or try authentic Chinese food in China Town, go hear Reggae music, shop in the
flea markets, or take a train to explore a smaller city on the coast of England. If you
study anywhere in a big city you’ll need to experience the micro culture of that country.
Use your BritRail and see the English countryside. This is a good site for trains in
England:
http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/
Dealing with the Time change. To get acclimated fast, drink plenty of water and stay
up until the end of the first day to be able to wake up at the right time the next day. It
takes people different amounts of time to adjust to the time change but be prepared to
be groggy for a couple of days. London time is six hours ahead of Texas.
THEATRE
Part of the advantage of visiting London is the opportunity to take in London’s wonderful
theatre district. As a group, we will attend one production. The cost of your ticket is
included in the program. Note: You will not be reimbursed for the cost of the ticket if you
miss a play, so we recommend you take advantage of the opportunity, as plays in
London are often pricey. And, attendance is mandatory.
You may want to take in other performances on your own. At the Half-Price
Booth at Leicester Square you can get tickets to available performances each night for
half price plus one pound. The Booth opens around noon, and lines can be very long in
the summer, so arrive as early as possible. You can sometimes get discounts by buying
last minute tickets at the theater ticket office. Discounts are available for students so
always show your International Student ID.
Be sure to see a play at the Globe Theater, a detailed
reproduction of the original Globe Theatre. Book tickets early as
the best performances sell out. (Stop by The Anchor down the
way from The Globe for a quick refreshment before the show.
This is a great riverside, outdoor bar. Great view and locals love
this place.) Regent’s Park also offers open air theatre events
during the summer, and something will be playing while we are in residence, so you
might want to check out what’s available nearby.
The Official London Theatre guide is available in the Lobby of Regents College,
in the Library, and in most theatres. It is great for information on most of the plays in
London, it has ticket prices, show times, and theatre locations.
Tip: Don't be late! Give yourself plenty to time to get to the theatre. Many
theatres won't let you in after the curtain goes up.
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OFF-CAMPUS DINING
Tired of the Refectory (Campus cafeteria)? No problem. Regent’s College is in a central
area with oodles of restaurant options. You’ll think you are in the U.S. when you see
familiar fast food places, but force yourself to venture out. Here are some of the
student’s favorites: (Note: We refer to takeout as food "to go," but the English say "take
away."
Tipping works the same as you would in the U.S (15 to 20 percent) but it is often
included in the check. Be sure to check that your bill is correct. We've had numerous
instances of students being over-charged.
Seashells: Traditional fish and chips, freshly prepared. The fish is huge, the chips a bit
on the oily side. Primarily take away, although a few tables outside. If you like ketchup
or tartar sauce you have to pay for it here. Located on Lisson Grove, just down from the
Marylebone train station.
Texas Embassy Cantina: Go only if you’re desperate for a Tex-Mex fix. However, it
can be pricey, and frankly, they don’t do Mexican in London as well as we do it in
Dallas. Go figure. Located at 1 Cockspur Street near Trafalgar Square.
Belle Pasta: A chain found throughout London; good pasta and pizza, as well as a
decent set of wines at reasonable prices. Lunch and dinner menus are available.
Pollo: Good, basic, cheap pasta dishes in this casual Soho student hangout. Shared
Formica tables, lively atmosphere. On Old Compton St. Leicester Sq. tube.
Pizza Express: One of London's favorite chains, it has good basic Italian fare at
reasonable prices. Located near campus at the corner of Baker St. and Marylebone,
and several other locations across London.
Joe Allen: Known as the theater actors' hangout, it is near Covent Garden, but hard to
find. It's on Exeter Street. Go down a flight of stairs or better yet, when you get on
Exeter, ask for directions. Covent Garden tube stop.
The Ivy: A glamorous spot with an eclectic, sophisticated menu (includes caviar, blinis
and rich desserts). Patrons are the in-crowd in London. Expensive. If your parents come
to visit, this is the place to let them pick up the check. Make reservations several days
ahead. On West St. Leicester Sq. tube stop.
Wagamama: Japanese noodles in a big basement. Stark atmosphere. This place is
always packed. You can choose ramen in or out of soup, topped with sliced meats or
tempura; or a "raw energy" dish like rice, curries, tofu and so on. There are several
locations in London, but the newer one is at 10A Lexington Street near Oxford Circus.
Yo! Sushi: Located at Oxford Street. A conveyor belt delivers plates of classic,
vegetarian, and gourmet sushi made by sushi chefs and rice robots, with cold beer and
warm sake served by three unique robotic guided trolleys traveling around the
restaurant, with still and sparkling water piped to every seat's auto dispenser.
Neal's Yard Dining Room: Fascinating, inexpensive vegetarian restaurant in Covent
Garden. It's an enclave of whole-food shops, herbal and witchcraft supplies, masseurs,
and of course, a café with vegetarian dishes from around the world. Covent Garden
tube stop.
Momo: This is an exotic, fun experience. Authentic taste of old Morocco in a charming
setting you won't find in the US. This mosque-lamped, mud-walled spot is popular, but
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worth the wait. You have to see the bar/lounge downstairs where patrons sit on giant
throw pillows and smoke from large water pipes. Medium to expensive. Open late. Take
the Piccadilly Circus tube stop.
Wodka: Fairly expensive, but is famous for its patrons: Jerry Hall (Mick Jagger's exwife;
Madonna etc.) On St. Albans Grove. Take the Glouster Rd. tube stop.
Harrods: This famous department store is also known for its elaborate, and expensive
food hall. Students have been known to shop here when planning a dinner picnic in
Regent's Park. Shop the vast selection of cheeses, breads, fruits,
vegetables, cooked meats, casseroles, desserts, fine wines and more.
Take the Knightsbridge tube stop.
The Fountain: Located in upscale Fortnum & Mason department store,
this is a Mary Poppins-like restaurant with quaint English foods and
desserts. Low to medium priced. While you're there go shopping. Good
quality. And visit the food court in the store for great souvenirs for the
folks back home. On Piccadilly. Green Park tube stop.
SIGHTSEEING
As a group, we will take in some sightseeing as part of the program. Students will have
ample time to sightsee on their own time. But here's a tip: Five weeks seems like a lot of
time, but it will fly by, so plan to hit at least one attraction every day. On the first Sunday,
we will take a double-decker bus that will familiarize you with London and some of the
major venues. The bus tour will take us past many London landmarks, including
Westminster Abbey, Parliament and Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace,
Trafalgar Square, The Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and many other sights. It’s a
great way to see London and help get you oriented, and it's included with your program
fee. Make sure to visit:
Westminster Abby: One of Britain's finest Gothic buildings and the
scene of coronations, marriages and burials of British monarchs.
It’s open for sightseeing Monday-Friday 9.20am-4.45pm and on
Saturday 9.20am-2.45pm. Admission is £5 for adults. The nearest
underground station is Westminster.
Buckingham Palace: Attempt to make it to see the Changing the
Guard Daily in summer at 11:30 AM. A new troop of the Queen's
personal bodyguards, The Brigade of Guards, march from either
Chelsea or Wellington Barrack to relieve the guard at Buckingham Palace.
Inns of the Court: This stunning example of Gothic architecture dates back to before
the 14th century. Here barristers train and traditionally practice. Located adjacent to the
Royal Courts of Justice, the Inns cover several acres and are comprised of a great hall,
chapel, libraries, sets of chambers and gardens. Public access is limited, although
visitors can tour the grounds and gardens during the week.
Winston Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms: The underground
headquarters used by Winston Churchill and the British Government during World War
II includes 21 historic rooms. An audio guide provides first-hand accounts of life in the
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War Rooms. The exhibition examines Churchill's many roles as a leader, statesman,
politician, soldier, father, husband and son.
Imperial War Museum: This national museum dedicated to war in the 20th Century is a
place of great diversity. Its exhibits range from tanks and aircraft to personal letters and
ration books; it also includes films and sound recordings and some of the century's best
known paintings. The museum exists to record and explain the two world wars and
many other conflicts fought since 1945, to examine what led up to them as well as what
happened during and after them. Admission is free.
Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum: The world famous collection of wax figures of
famous people. It’s open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm and Saturday and Sunday 9.20am5.30pm. Admission is £30 for adults. It’s on Marylebone Road in walking distance from
Regent's Park. The nearest underground station is Baker Street.
Covent Garden: This piazza surrounded by quaint cobbled streets and a picturesque
converted market building attracts swarms of people for its shops, restaurants, street
musicians, and bars. It's a great for people watching, too. The area surrounding Covent
Garden has wonderful shopping and restaurants.
Kew Gardens: A 300-acre Royal Botanic garden with zillions of plants, art galleries and
Victorian crystal palace glasshouses. There is also a royal palace. Just outside of
London. Open daily, Take the Kew Gardens tube stop.
Camden Market: Great for bizarre, punkster people-watching, funky shops, vintage
clothes, Indian goods, unique crafts, antiques and flea-market areas. Go on Saturdays
from 10 to 3 and head down to an area called “The Stables” for great shopping.
Camden, Chalk Farm or Angel Tube stops. Or if you don't mind the long walk, you can
stroll through sprawling Regent's Park. Takes about 30-45 minutes on foot, but it's a
great walk through lush gardens, past the London Zoo and over to Camden Lock (a
narrow waterway). Bring your camera!
The Tower of London: Guarded by the famous Beefeaters, visitors can see Traitors'
Gate, the priceless Crown Jewels and the famous ravens.
Admission is £15.50 for students. It’s open Tuesday-Saturday
9am-4pm and Sunday and Monday 10am-4pm. The nearest
underground station is Tower Hill.
St. Paul’s Cathedral: One of the world's most
famous cathedrals, designed by Sir Christopher
Wren. It’s open for sightseeing MondaySaturday 8.30am-4pm, with the galleries
opening at 9.30am. Admission to the Cathedral
is £4 for adults. Admission to the Galleries is £13.50 for adults. The nearest
underground station is St. Paul’s.
Portobello Road Market: Rows and rows of antique dealers, trendy vintage clothing,
junk and produce venders. Considered London's best antique/flea market. Great
atmosphere. Go on Sat. from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Notting Hill Gate tube stop.
Museums: London has some of the best museums in the world. Among the most
popular are the British Museum, the National Gallery, Victoria and Albert Museum, The
Tate Gallery, Natural History Museum, National Portrait Gallery, to name a few.
Off the Beaten Track
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Hampstead Heath is one of the few places in London where you can actually forget
that you're in the middle of an 800-sq-mi (1300-sq-km) city. There are woods, meadows,
hills, bathing ponds and, most importantly of all, lots of space. After a brisk walk on the
heath, pop into the Spaniard's Inn for a tipple or have a look at Robert Adam's beautiful
Kenwood House and wander around its romantic grounds. You can lose the 20th
century altogether in Church Row, Admiral's Walk and Flask Walk, which have intact
Georgian cottages, terraces and houses.
Highgate Cemetery can't be beaten for its Victorian Gothic atmosphere and downright
eeriness. Its extensive and overgrown grounds include cypress trees, Egyptian-style
catacombs, enough chipped angels to please the most discerning Joy Division fan, Karl
the more serious Marx brother and personalized tombs reflecting their eccentric
inhabitants.
Kensal Green and Brompton cemeteries are also Victorian delights, complete with
catacombs and angels.
Holland Park is both a residential district, full of elegant town houses, and an inner-city
haven of greenery, complete with strutting peacocks and scampering bunnies, the
restored remnants of a Jacobean mansion (now set aside for the world's backpackers),
two exhibition galleries and formal gardens. Nearby, the Leighton
House is full of pre-Raphaelite paintings of languorous, scantily
dressed Grecian ladies slipping their hands into the milky waters of
public baths.
Brick Lane Market: Go here for a real taste of culturally diverse
London. This is known as the East End, where the likes of Amy
Winehouse got her start playing in these clubs. It’s also known for
its great Indian food, low prices and seedy appeal. On Sundays the
ground is strewn with blankets covered in everything from rusty nails
to gold watches. Haggling's the key, though consonants drop off vowels, making
Cockney English sound like a foreign language. Beware of pickpockets!
Ye Olde Kensington Market is the place to go to replace your punk mohair jumper,
bum bag and kilt, and why not get a haircut, tattoo, pierced upper ear and a new slogan
painted on your leather jacket while you're there?
Brixton Market is a pot of treasure at the Victoria Line's end. Head south to this
cosmopolitan treat made up of a rainbow coalition of reggae music, Muslim clerics, halal
meat and fruit and vegetables. Its inventory includes wigs, homeopathic root cures, goat
meat and rare records.
Suggested web sites for information on/about London and UK:
•Regent’s College: http://www.regents.ac.uk
•Time Out Magazine (A weekly guide to what’s going on)
http://www.timeout.com/london
•London Directory: http://www.netlondon.com
•Theater info: http://www.whatsonstage.com
•Tubes, Bus route info: www.londontransport.co.uk
•For directions: www.tfl.gov.uk
•Entertainment guide: www.thisislondon.co.uk
22
•City, government, business info: www.cityoflondon.gov.uk
General London/UK Guides:
www.londontown.com
www.lcos.org.uk
www.ukguide.org/london.html
www.offtolondon.com
www.visitlondon.com
www.wheremagazine.com
Day or Weekend Trips:
Students should try to plan ahead for weekend getaways, either in
the UK or other countries. Regent’s College student services can
help you find accommodations in other cities, as well as low
airfares. Check out these low cost airlines:
Ryan Air at ryanair.com
Easy Jet at easyjet.com
Popular day or weekend destinations for students
Windsor Castle: Tour this beautifully maintained queen's weekend home. Short onehour trip from London to the quaint town of Windsor. Check the train schedule for times.
Waterloo station to Windsor.
Hampton Court Palace: Henry VIII's palace is masterfully preserved to reflect the
Tudor period. The yew maze is famous. Take the Hampton Court BritRail. A short 30minute train ride from London. Take the Hampton Court train from Waterloo. Or sail
down by river launch from Westminster Pier to Hampton Court Pier via Richmond or
Kingston for 3.5 hours journey time for about £7.
Leeds Castle in Kent is another good day out with beautiful countryside scenery. Visit
this "working" castle with actual residents. There is a magnificent garden, bird sanctuary
and maze.
Warwick Castle (in Warwick) is another day trip, about two
hours by train from London. This dramatic medieval castle on the
river is packed with historical artifacts from armor and weapons
to tapestries and sculpture.
Canterbury: About an hour-and-a-half from London. Open 95:30 M-F. The cathedral is the main attraction in Canterbury. It
was the country’s first cathedral and the present structure was begun in 1071 AD. It is a
beautiful cathedral. Quaint town with good shopping and restaurants.
Rye: About 1hr and 30 minutes by train south of London. It's a picturesque medieval
town of cobbled streets and half-timbered buildings.
Brighton : It's a beach town, but the beaches are not much to write home about. But
the town is interesting. Visit the magnificent Royal Pavilion. This is a laid-back beach
town with lots of charming shops and bed-and-breakfasts. Lots of music in the parks
and beach-side pavilions. About a one-hour train ride from London.
Bath : Tour the Roman baths, shop and admire the glorious yellow stone buildings.
Bath is about 1 to 2 hours from London by train.
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Stonehenge/Salisbury: Europe’s most famous prehistoric site. Open 10-6 daily Cost
£5.10 for students. This is a good stop on the way to Bath, and a place we will go as a
group. Make sure to stop and see the famous cathedral in Salisbury. A bus runs from
Salisbury to Stonehenge (about a 20-minute trip).
Cambridge: Cambridge, much like Oxford, is a university town, but has a much
different ambience: lots of shops, recreation, museums. Visit some of the colleges like
Kings College, and definitely go punting on the Cam. About a 1-hour train trip from
London. We will also visit here as a group.
Greenwich: Reachable by boat, for a few pounds you can cruise up the Thames River
and stand in two hemispheres in Greenwich. (Here is where we get the term Greenwich
mean time.) A pretty town, with a maritime museum, a huge park, markets, a royal
house.
York: About three hours by train from London, this medieval town has quaint winding
streets where cars are banned from the center of town. People bike or walk through the
cobbled streets lined with tons of great shops, pubs, restaurants, inns, museums and
ancient churches. It's a great stopover on the way to or from Scotland but you'll want to
spend several hours here.
Paris, France: Paris is reachable by Eurostar train in about three hours. Check student
rates on the Eurostar website. There are several trains every day from London to Paris.
The cheapest way to go is with a one-day fare over and back. You can leave early in
the morning and return late at night and sleep on the train. It is sometimes called the
"Clubbing" fare. Paris has several hostels, but select carefully and try to find one
convenient to a Metro line.
Amsterdam: Students are initially attracted to Amsterdam because of the lax laws, but
they come back talking about the beautiful city, the museums and picturesque canals.
Ask the travel agent about flight deals and go with a friend or with a group. We've had a
couple of students pick-pocketed here.
Dublin, Ireland: It is best to fly rather than go by train and ferry, which takes 6 hours
and you have to change trains. Flying is less than an hour and around £100 or less if
you plan in advance. Check Ryan Air for cheap fares.
Barcelona, Spain: Students were showing off their tans after a weekend lying on the
beaches of Barcelona. Airfare is approximately £150 and up.
Cinque Terre, Italy: Students raved about this breath-taking series of five islands along
the rocky coastline of Italy last year. Ask the travel agent to help you plan this one, since
it is fairly complicated.
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Costs Not Covered in the Program Fee
•Flight: roundtrip from Dallas to London: …………………..About $1260
(This is for the group flight. Students are welcome to make independent travel plans.)
•Britrail Pass:………………………………………………… About $385
This is the BritRail Flexipass 8 days in 2 months at the Youth rate. It allows travel on
any eight days in two months within the UK. You can opt to buy a more expensive pass
that allows more travel days inside the UK. (See the BritRail website at www.britrail.com
for prices.) Note, this is BritRail, not Eurail. Don’t buy a Eurail pass unless you’re
planning to travel through Europe before or after the London program.
•Estimated weekly expenses:………………………………About $250
Living in London is expensive, and the dollar is $1.60 to the pound right now. The
program covers meals at the college, housing, and transportation within London, one
major play, all of the group tours and day trip activities (tour guides, bus and boat tour,
attraction entrance fees) and group parties. However, students need to bring money for
personal expenses: phone card, hair dryer, souvenirs, going out and weekend trips on
their own. (You are free to travel on two of the five weekends.) Many students end up
taking weekend trips to other countries or to other parts of the UK. How much you
spend is entirely dependent on your budget.
•Books/School Supplies:……………………………………About $100.
(This depends on the courses and will be outlined in each syllabus. Note: all books must
be purchased before leaving the U.S.)
•Haggis Tour in Scotland:…………………………………..About $160
This is optional, but highly recommended if you want a unique, reasonably priced
backpackers tour of the Scottish Highlands. This coincides with our group trip to
Scotland on Thurs., June 7. The Haggis Tour bus will depart Edinburgh on Friday, June
8 and drop you in Glasgow on Sunday, June 10. We will be sending details of this
terrific trip by e-mail. This does not include food or two nights in Scottish hostels, which
runs about £20 per night. You will also need tip money for the driver and guide.
•Cell Phone........................................................Required by all students. Two options:
1.) You can bring your phone from the US, making sure to request international roaming
service (ask about discounts) from your US phone service. You will then buy a SIM card
when in London (Only £5). Make sure to ask your phone service to unlock your phone in
order to accommodate a different SIM card. Please note that US phone service in the
UK is expensive – about $1 per minute minimum, plus data and overseas packages.
2.) Or, you can purchase a pay-as-you-go phone in London for about £40, plus the cost
of minutes, which you buy as needed. This is called “topping up” your phone, and can
be purchased at a wide range of stores in London. This is the less expensive option.
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Weekend Travel Schedule
Name________________________________ European Cell Phone: ______________
*** Note: your British cell phone may not work on the Continent without a new SIM card, which you can get at the airport.
People Travelling in Your Group: (note: you MUST be travelling with at least one other SMU-in-London student)
Name
Cell Phone
____________________________
___________________________
____________________________
___________________________
Flight Schedule:
Departure Time: ________________
Air Carrier/Flight Number: ________________
Departure Airport: _______________________
Arrival Airport: __________________________ Arrival Time: ____________________
Hotel/Hostel
Phone Number
Address: ______________________________________________________________
Planned activities: _______________________________________________________
Return Time: ____________________ Air Carrier/Flight Number: ________________
Departure Airport: ________________ Arrival Airport: _________________________
Arrival Time:_____________________
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