Telephones
Mobile telephones are extremely popular in the UK. Although they are not the cheapest way to contact friends and family back home, they are convenient for university life. Should you wish to buy one, shop around - there are many packages on offer and a lot of competition. With many packages you sign a contract so be sure that it is appropriate for you before you commit yourself.
Public telephones are available, and can be operated with coins or cards. Telephone cards can be purchased from newsagents, post offices or supermarkets. Credit cards can also be used. Although public telephones are not so widely used these days, you should still find one in your student's union.
The cheapest way for you to phone home is to use a private or 'landline' phone, as calls cost less than public telephones or mobiles. International calls are cheapest during off-peak hours, which are between 8pm and 8am. Telephone cards that can be used for landlines are available. These are aimed at people who need to make international phone calls and are often the cheapest option.
E-mail is a widespread and popular means of communication in the UK. Most higher education institutions will provide students with a free e-mail account, and you should have good access to the Internet through the university's computer clusters.
If you have your own computer, you will be able to sign up with a UK Internet service provider, and open your own e-mail account that way.
Post
Post offices are open from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 12.30pm on Saturdays. You can also buy stamps from supermarkets or newsagents. Post-boxes are located on many streets.
