Group travel by train - Save money!

You can save money if you travel by train in a group - please see http://www.nationalexpresseastanglia.com/tickets_timetables/ticket_types/group_travel

Travelling in the UK.

There are many interesting places to visit in the UK, please see http://www.visitbritain.co.uk/

If you are unsure about the most popular places to visit, why not take a look at http://www.evanevanstours.co.uk/

Budget priced tours of the UK, please see
http://www.haggisadventures.com

If you are looking for somewhere not on the regular tourist trail, please see http://www.hidden-britain.co.uk/

Lots of films were filmed on location in the UK, please see http://www.information-britain.co.uk/movies.htm

You can save money on your travel - please see http://bobstips.blogspot.com/2007/05/buying-cheaper-priced-rail-tickets-plan.html & http://bobstips.blogspot.com/2007/05/uk-student-travel-discount-cards.html

How to improve your English? Join an Adult Education course.

There are lots of courses ranging from cooking classes and dance classes to computer skills and sports coaching, organised by Adult Education. This is a fun way to meet English people, learn a new skill and improve your English. For more information, please see
http://www.adulteducation.norfolk.gov.uk/

Welcome to Bob's Tips!

Welcome! Please allow me to introduce myself and the purpose of this blog. My name is Bob Parsons and I have been working for almost seventeen years with international students studying in the UK. During this time I have helped many students and answered many questions on a wide range of topics. If you have any tips, comments or advice to help international students or students from your country, please post them to my blog. Your experience, suggestions and advice may help many international students in the future. Best wishes, Bob.

How to search this blog?
Please use the search bar to quickly find information listed in subject order. For example, if you are looking for tips on travel, please type travel into the search bar and all the relevant postings will be listed. By clicking on the arrows next to the month, i.e. August, you can find a full list of all the postings for that month.

Discount Books at Waterstone’s Bookshop UEA.

Calling All Students!
Waterstone’s UEA
10% student discount
until October 31st
ONLY available
to Loyalty Card holders
PLUS you earn 3 points for every £1 you spend
- equal to another 3%. !

Beat The Queues!
Call into Waterstone’s at UEA and get your card TODAY
Ready for your next book purchase
It’s free and easy to join, you start earning points with your first purchase, and you can earn and redeem points in our shops or online at waterstone.com

Exclusive benefits to cardholders also include:
Emails featuring book reviews on the latest titles,
competitions and the chance to read and review books
before they are published

Exclusive Cardholder offers on selected books

Student Union Handbook.

You can find lots of interesting & useful information for UEA students in the Student Union Handbook. Please take a look: http://www.ueastudent.com/COMPLETE%20HANDBOOK%20-%20for%20web.pdf

Getting to INTO from Norwich City Centre.

From Norwich city centre you can take bus numbers 25 or 26 from Castle Meadow (all the buses are marked University). These buses will take you to the University of East Anglia. For bus timetables - please see: http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/easterncounties/easterncounties/timetables/index.php

Directions to UEA: http://www.ueaconferences.com/docs/Campus_Map.pdf

Directions to INTO: INTO University of East Anglia, INTO Building (Campus Map reference C15 ), is located between The Main Car Park (Campus Map reference P1 ) & The Medical Centre (Campus Map reference C16 ) on University Drive. The INTO office number is: 01603 592977 (9am-5.30pm). The INTO emergency number for use outside office hours is: 07986 957047. Campus maps can be viewed or downloaded from
http://www.ueaconferences.com/docs/Campus_Map.pdf

Free Internet at The Forum - Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library.

Internet at The Forum - Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library.
If you show your passport at the joining desk in the library, you can use the internet at the Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library in The Forum for free. Please see http://www.theforumnorwich.co.uk/visit/how-to-find-the-forum.htm for directions & http://www.theforumnorwich.co.uk/explore-the-forum/norfolk-and-norwich-millennium-library.htm for opening times.

Norwich City Football Club.

If you would like to watch Norwich City football matches, you can get a discount when booking your tickets by showing your campus card. For more information and the fixtures, please see www.canaries.premiumtv.co.uk

How to receive your letters and parcels when you live in UEA Residences?

You will need to collect your letters and parcels from The Post Room (Open Monday to Friday 10.00am – 4.30pm). The Post Room is in The ARTS Building and can be found opposite The Chaplaincy down the steps. Please see below for an example of how to write your address:
Your Name
Your Residence, (For example – Victory House).
University of East Anglia,
Earlham Road, Norwich,
Norfolk, NR4 7TJ.
Please remember to check your post regularly, as The Post Room can only keep your post for two weeks. They will email you if a parcel or registered item arrives for you (check your UEA email address). You must always bring your campus card or passport for identification.

The Assembly House - Afternoon Tea & Events.

The Assembly House is a beautiful Georgian Grade I listed building that enjoys a tranquil and peaceful setting in the centre of the historic city of Norwich, Norfolk. They host a varied visual and performing arts programme as well as encouraging educational projects. Ivory's Café Bar has a comfortable elegant ambience with soft leather sofas. It is the ideal place to relax and unwind and to enjoy a morning coffee with homemade cakes, scones or pastries. Light lunches offer a selection of freshly made sandwiches and baguettes; traditional afternoon cream teas are a favourite. A new service of Traditional High Teas served from 3.30pm to 7.00pm (Monday - Saturday) is available. Featuring traditional favourites from freshly prepared omelettes, welsh rarebit and scrambled egg and smoked salmon on toasted wholemeal. Please see http://www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk/ for more information.

The King of Hearts - Arts & Culture Cafe.

The King of Hearts is a superb Tudor building located in the historic centre of Norwich, which hosts a variety of activities. Two fine medieval halls house a Contemporary Art Gallery and a Music Room; a small craft shop serves as a showcase for East Anglian artists and also sells books: art, poetry and children's stories. Four meeting rooms are available for training, lectures, working meetings, corporate entertainment or social occasions, and a lively Café and peaceful courtyard provide an informal and relaxed atmosphere. The architectural and historic interest, as well as the artistic feel of the building, make it a unique setting for a great variety of events.

For more information, please see http://www.kingofhearts.org.uk/

Changing money & Travellers' Cheques.

Marks & Spencer charge no commission on foreign currency and foreign currency travellers' cheques, and only 1% when they sell Sterling Travellers' Cheques. They can arrange everything.
Just pop into a Bureau de Change in the larger stores and they will sort it out for you there and then, Cash, Debit or Credit Cards are all accepted as payment. Please take your full driving licence or passport with you as proof of ID. If you prefer you can buy online or over the phone by calling 0870 600 3502 (Opening hours are Mon - Fri 8am - 9pm, Sat & Sun 8am - 6pm) - and they will deliver to your home free of charge on orders over £500.
http://www6.marksandspencer.com/pages/default.asp?PageId=MI&Product=TM

Day trips & travel from Norwich by train.

The Norfolk Broads: http://www.tournorfolk.co.uk/norfolkbroads.html You can get to Wroxham by rail. Sheringham and Cromer: http://www.tournorfolk.co.uk/sheringham.html or http://www.tournorfolk.co.uk/cromer.html You can get to Sheringham and Cromer by rail. Great Yarmouth: http://www.tournorfolk.co.uk/greatyarmouth.html You can get to Great Yarmouth by rail . Cambridge: http://www.visitcambridge.org/VisitCambridge/Home.aspx You can get to Cambridge by rail. For self guided tours that you can follow for free, please see http://www.visitcambridge.org/TicketServer/SelfGuided.aspx For rail timetables, please see http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ or http://www.bitternline.com/ For cheap rail tickets, please see http://www.nationalexpresseastanglia.com/tickets_timetables/ticket_types/rangers_and_rovers I hope you will enjoy a lovely day out!

London on a budget - How to save money!

Please see this newspaper link - 14th August 2007:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/main.jhtml?xml=/travel/2007/08/11/nosplit/et-london-on-a-budget-111.xml

Lost Property.

If you lose something on campus (at UEA), you should go to either The Post Room or The Reception in The Student Union to check if it has been found. Also, if you find something please take it to either of these two places. If you lose something off campus, please go to the local Police Station. In Norwich this is in Bethel Street, near to The City Hall: Bethel Street Public Enquiry Office Bethel Street, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 1NN. Telephone: 0845 456 4567. Email: enquiries@norfolk.pnn.police.uk Opening hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 7pm. Saturday 9am - 6pmSunday 10am - 5pm. You will need to report any lost or stolen property to the police to get a lost property/crime number for any insurance claim.

Opening a bank account.

You would normally have to be a student for at least six months to open a bank account. You will need to fill in a bank letter form which can be requested from Bob by email. You must open up a bank account as soon as possible if you are planning to extend your visa when you progress onto another course, as bank statements will be required to support your application.

Please note: 

If you are living in either INTO Building or UEA accommodation and wish to join Barclays Bank on campus, you do not need a letter from me.  You just need to take your Accommodation Licence to INTO Reception and ask for it to be stamped and dated.  You can then go to the bank with your Accommodation Licence and Passport to arrange an appointment to open up your bank account.

London Theatre & West End Musicals.

Generally it is cheaper to book tickets directly with the Theatre where the musical is taking place. For more information about London Musicals, Theatres, Directions, Seating Plans etc.
please see http://www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk/

If you are unable to book a ticket with the Theatre for the date you would like, please check availabilty at http://www.londontheatrebookings.com/ Generally the tickets are slightly more expensive here, because this is a ticket agency. They buy lots of tickets from the Theatre, so if the Theatre has sold out you may find tickets here.

The Society of London Theatre runs two "Ticket" booths www.tkts.co.uk that sell hugely discounted tickets (usually just £27.50) on the day of performance for about 30 top West End shows.

If you are in London between Monday & Thursday and would like to see a Musical, a Ballet or a Play with a Student discount price, please go to the Theatre Box Office of the show you would like to see on the day of the performance, and you may be able to get a Student Ticket - you will need to show some student identification.

Please see Bob if you need further help or information.

The Security Lodge & The Medical Centre.

The Security Lodge - 01603 592352 The team of security officers provides a security presence on campus for the prevention and detection of crime and also provides security-related information and guidance. The Lodge is staffed 24 hours a day and Security staff patrol both on foot and by vehicle. You are encouraged to report straightaway any crimes or suspicious persons or activities, or to seek direct help from security staff if you are concerned about your safety. Medical Centre - 01603 251600 Open 8:30am to 6:00pm from Monday to Friday. If you need medical assistance out of hours call the same number and you will be put through to the out of hour’s medical service. Website: http://www.umsuea.co.uk/

Finding hotel & bed & breakfast accommodation in Norwich.

Please see http://www.visitnorwich.co.uk/places-to-stay.aspx

UEA Campus Map.

You can download a map of the UEA at
http://www.ueaconferences.com/docs/Campus_Map.pdf

The map reference for INTO is C15 & for The Security Lodge it is V2

Travel directions by road.

If you need to find out how to get to another place by road, and you do not have satellite navigation, please see http://www.theaa.com/travel/index.jsp You can download a map and a route planner from this site.
It is better if you have the postcode of the place from where you wish to travel from and travel to. The postcode of UEA is NR4 7TJ. Other post codes can be found at http://www.royalmail.com/portal/rm/postcodefinder;jsessionid=IYCVXNLNBLBDIFB2IGFENZQUHRAYWQ2K;jsessionid=IYCVXNLNBLBDIFB2IGFENZQUHRAYWQ2K?catId=400145&gear=postcode

Directions to UEA: http://www.uea.ac.uk/polopoly_fs/1.3852!ocationmap%2Buka4cmyk.pdf

Directions to INTO: INTO University of East Anglia, INTO Building (Campus Map reference C15 ), is located between The Main Car Park (Campus Map reference P1 ) & The Medical Centre (Campus Map reference C16 ) on University Drive. The INTO office number is: 01603 592977 (9am-5.30pm). The INTO emergency number for use outside office hours is: 07986 957047. Campus maps can be viewed or downloaded from http://www.ueaconferences.com/docs/Campus_Map.pdf

Norwich tourist information.

To find out more about Norwich, please take a look at the online guide http://www.visitnorwich.co.uk/information.aspx

The official Norwich website is the source of the Eating Out; Night life; Shopping; Things to do; & Arts & culture information which has been posted to this blog - please see http://www.visitnorwich.co.uk

Norwich nightlife.

When evening falls, don't stay in. Night time is the right time to discover the excitement that Norwich can offer to the young and young at heart. search nightlife using maps search nightlife using lists

For more information please see http://www.visitnorwich.co.uk/nightlife.aspx

Arts & culture.

Norwich is known as the capital of East Anglia, and as a cultural centre it is firmly on the map. Theatre venues to choose from include The Maddermarket, Norwich Playhouse, Sewell Barn, the Theatre Royal and UEA’s Studio Theatre. Elsewhere there are the eclectic offerings of Norwich Arts Centre, Cinema City and the unique Puppet Theatre. Norwich also has a highly acclaimed orchestra, the Britten Sinfonia.Numerous museums and galleries provide opportunities to take in fine art, treasures from the past and contemporary ideas. To name a few examples, the Castle Museum holds the distinctive 19th century landscapes of the Norwich School of painters, while the Sainsbury Centre for the Visual Arts has treasures from many civilisations and work by some of the most influential artists of modern times. The Norwich Gallery shows a changing programme of work by living artists, designers and crafts makers connected with the Norwich School of Art and Design.The twin monuments of the Norman castle and cathedral are reminders of the rich heritage that Norwich embodies today. The city still has over 30 flint-built medieval churches - more than London, Bristol and York combined! Virtually every street tells a historical story, and you’ll find many fine examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture.Norwich is also a city of festivals, with themes as diverse as drama, music, film, animation, comedy, food, beer and the Lord Mayor’s celebrations each July.

For more information please see http://www.visitnorwich.co.uk/arts-and-culture.aspx

Things to do in Norwich.

There is no shortage of things to do and things to see in Norwich, Broadland and South Norfolk. Here is a snapshot of the opportunities that you can find – there are loads more in our search pages though this is just a taster of the activities on offer. One thing’s for certain you will never be short of something to do in this part of the country!

Please see http://www.visitnorwich.co.uk/things-to-do.aspx for more information.

Eating out in Norwich - Restaurant guide.

Now you no longer have to go somewhere exotic to experience something of another country. You can find yourself in a different place every night through eating out. Restaurants provide an excellent way to gain an insight into a country’s culture and traditions and across the Norwich area there is an array of eating out establishments providing everything from snacks through lunch and tea right up to fine dining experiences.

Please see http://www.visitnorwich.co.uk/eating-out.aspx

Shopping in Norwich.

Norwich one of the top 5 places to shop in the UK!
Norwich is a unique shopping destination with its large pedestrian areas, quirky, independent shops, 6 day open-air market and spacious modern shopping malls. To get the most out of your shopping use our on-line search for a general look at what is on offer or use it find something specific. From department stores to antiques, art galleries to furniture, jewellery to florists and beyond! And if you're about to head out onto the street use our Shopping Map and Guide to get the most out of your shopping trip to Norwich City.

For more information, please see http://www.visitnorwich.co.uk/shopping.aspx

Tips to help you save money.

Please see http://www.moneysavingexpert.com

Bed & Breakfast accommodation at UEA.

The UEA has bed & breakfast accommodation for visitors to the University or Norwich. Please see http://www.broadviewlodge.co.uk/

Norwich International Airport.

Norwich International Airport is a convenient gateway to Norwich and only 25 minutes from INTO University Of East Anglia. You can get to Norwich from most worldwide destinations using KLM via Amsterdam - http://www.klm.com For more information about Norwich Airport, please see http://www.norwichairport.co.uk

The Union Travel Shop.

The Union Travel Shop has been operating at the UEA for over 20 years. We are located on the corner of Union House above the square, between Waterstones and Endsleigh.
We can help with all your travel needs including coach, rail, Eurostar, flights, ferries, accommodation, car hire, Inter-rail passes, package holidays and travel insurance.
We are agents for STA Travel and have access to some excellent discounted fares to hundreds of destinations world-wide, for students and non-students alike.
We can provide many discount travel cards to help you save money both in the UK and abroad, including National Express NX2 card, Young Persons Rail Card, ISIC, International Youth Card, YHA card and the VIP Backpackers card.
Our staff are friendly and helpful and will provide information and advice to make your travels as smooth as possible.

Opening Times:
Monday - Friday 9.30am - 4.00pm.

How to Contact Us
By Telephone: 01603 503103
By Email: travelshop@uea.ac.uk
By Letter: Union Travel Shop, Union House, UEA, Norwich, NR4 7TJ

A tip from one of our Taiwanese students.

A tip from one of our Taiwanese students.

If people want to try Chinese buffet, there are 2 restaurants. One is Lucky Star near the main bus station, and the other one is at Riverside (beside The Odeon cinema). Although the 2 restaurants have the same boss, Lucky Star is cheaper. At Lucky Star, people only spend 6 pounds for lunch (25 dishes), and spend 11 pounds for dinner (40 dishes). The other (Riverside area) restaurant is bigger, and it has a grill. If people have Chinese Union cards, then they can get one more drink for free (but only for one time).

Dean Of Students - International Students' Handbook.

Please see http://www.uea.ac.uk/polopoly_fs/1.116375!/IntHandbook10-11.pdf for lots of useful information for International Students studying at UEA, written by The Dean Of Students.

Electrical equipment.

The electricity supply in the UK is 230 volts with a frequency of 50 Hertz. If you buy or bring electrical appliances or equipment with you, make sure that they are connected to a plug fitted with a fuse of the correct rating. If you have any doubts about the acceptability or safety of your electrical appliances contact the University Maintenance Department on (01603) 592121 before you attempt to use them.

Bath, Stonehenge & The Cotswolds - tours & travel.

Bath http://visitbath.co.uk/ is one of the most popular tourist cities in the UK and provides a good base for visiting The Cotswolds http://www.the-cotswolds.org/ & Stonehenge http://www.stonehenge.co.uk/ - two very popular English tourist destinations.
Cheap accommodation can be found at http://www.bathymca.co.uk/
Guided tours can be organised through a highly recommended company http://www.madmax.abel.co.uk/

Try to book rail tickets early and you may be able to save money!

Booking a Hotel in the UK & Europe.

HotelPronto is the web's leading hotel booking agency specialising in quality hotel accommodation at discounted rates. They offer in excess of 57,000 hotels around the world in both cities and coastal resorts. They offer a full range of properties, including convenient airport hotels, 2 and 3 star budget hotel rooms and 4 and 5 star luxury hotel accommodation. Launched in September 2003, HotelPronto provides a simple and cost effective way to make hotel bookings quickly becoming the web site of choice for many people to book their hotel stays. HotelPronto offers a unique service to cost conscious travellers seeking the best hotel rates. HotelPronto's unique proprietary booking system allows us to search the world's leading consolidators returning the cheapest results at the largest number of properties in any given destination. Please see http://www.hotelpronto.co.uk/ for more information.

Japanese Food & Ingredients.

You can buy Japanese food and ingredients online, or by visiting these shops in London.

http://www.ricewineshop.com/

http://www.japancentre.com/

Itadakimasu!

Using computers & the internet at UEA.

When you first receive your IT username, email address and password with your Campus Card, you must change the default password given the first time you log in. You will be prompted to do this. Your new chosen password must contain six numbers; a capital letter; & a small letter in any order - for example T123456u. Please note! You must check your UEA email address on a daily basis as this is a university regulation. You can do this from any computer anywhere in the world by going to http://webmail.uea.ac.uk/

If you live in residential acccommodation on campus, you can log in to the main UEA system and the internet from your room. You will need to use UEA virus software and load it on to your computer. You can get this from the IT Helpdesk in the library (they will also give you instructions) and this will enable you to use your computer in your room.

If you do not have a computer or live off campus, the computer area in the library is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can enter using your campus card (when the main library is closed). The entrance is directly behind The Street (walk down the steps between The Paper Shop & The Post Office and turn left). The door is situated in Suffolk Road on the bottom floor of the new library extension.

Cheap International Phone Cards.

International Phone Cards make calling home much cheaper. Please see http://www.cheapphonecards.co.uk/ to help you decide the best option for you!

Another good website is http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/phones/cheap-overseas-calls

The Lake District - tours & travel.

For more information, please see the websites below: A recommended guest house: www.lynwood-guest-house.co.uk A guided tour is highly recommended and the minibus will collect you from the guest house above: www.lakes-supertours.co.uk General Website: http://www.golakes.co.uk/ Beatrix Potter: www.hop-skip-jump.com/ Try to book rail tickets early and you may be able to save money!

Cheap accommodation in London.

Cranley Gardens Hotel.
Singles: £45 per night.
Twin/Doubles: £60 per night.
Triples: £90 per night.
Please contact Bob to make a booking or for further information.
Subject to availability. Prices are per room & include Buffet Breakfast, Service & Tax.
Website: http://www.cranleygardenshotel.com/

International Students House Address: 229 Great Portland Street, London.
Post Code: W1W 5PN (For a map, please see www.streetmap.co.uk & type in this post code in the search bar). Tel: 020 7631 8300. Website: http://www.ish.org.uk/ Closest Underground Station: Great Portland Street.

London Tips.

Japanese Food: http://www.ricewineshop.com/polar.html Ryo Japanese Restaurant, 84 Brewer Street, London, W1F 9UB. Telephone: 020 7287 1318 Post Code: W1F 9UB (For a map, please see www.streetmap.co.uk & type in this post code in the search bar). Open Top Bus Tour: http://www.theoriginaltour.com/home/ Museums In London: http://www.londontourist.org/museums.html Guided Walks: http://www.londontourist.org/itinerary.html Travelling In London: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/ Official London Website: http://www.visitlondon.com/ Free things to do in London: http://golondon.about.com/od/thingstodoinlondon/tp/free_London.htm Tips for saving money in London - Newspaper link 14th August 2007: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/main.jhtml?xml=/travel/2007/08/11/nosplit/et-london-on-a-budget-111.xml

Phone numbers or dialing codes - how to find?

Please see http://www.thephonebook.bt.com/

Secondhand cycles & cycle repairs.

During the semester, Doctor Bike visits the campus and offers secondhand cycles for sale and cycle repairs. Please ask at the Union Reception for more information, or see Bob. For information about other bike shops and comments on their service, please see http://www.uea.ac.uk/~r070/ For information about bikes (safe routes, security etc.) http://www.est.uea.ac.uk/transport/cycling.asp

The Chaplaincy.

The Chaplaincy is a spiritual meeting place offering rest and comfort. It is open to all staff and students at UEA, and is situated in The Square. Come in and make yourself known in this "Home from Home" facility on campus. For times of prayer, services, meditation and events, please see www.uea.ac.uk/chaplaincy

The opening hours (during semester) are Sundays around Mass times and weekdays 9.00am till 6.00pm - closed on Saturdays. The Common Room, Quiet Room and tea and coffee facilities are at the disposal of all at UEA. The UEA Chaplaincy is an Eco-Congregation. We pledge to pray and work for an environmentally sustainable and socially just world which will help to "Make Poverty History".

Every Tuesday lunchtime (during semester) the chaplains organise a Bread & Cheese lunch open to all UEA students and staff - come and meet new friends, and practise your English in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Chaplaincy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, Norfolk, NR4 7TJ, UK. Please see www.uea.ac.uk/chaplaincy for more information.

IELTS Testing in Norwich.

If you need to take an IELTS test you can now take it in Norwich. Please see http://www.anglia.ac.uk/ruskin/en/home/central/ielts/norwich.html for more information, including dates and an application form that can be downloaded.

Supermarkets - food shopping.

There is a ‘mini supermarket’ on campus - see http://www.ueastudent.com/shops/ufo They sell many kinds of Asian food - Japanese, Chinese & Korean! For Opening Times please see http://www.ueastudent.com/shops/ufo There is also a Tesco Supermarket within walking distance from UEA. Turn left onto Bluebell Road at the exit road of the university and Tesco is by the roundabout and is open 24 hours. Next to this there is a Co-op, which is cheaper but is not open for as long. Opening hours are 08:00 to 22:00 Monday to Saturday and 10:00 to 16:00 on Sundays Morrisons (the cheapest supermarket in Norwich) is situated near Norwich train station and you can take the number 25 bus to the Rail Station and walk behind to Morrisons (approx 5 mins). The opening hours are Monday, Tuesday and Saturday 08:30 to 22:00, Wednesday 08:30 to 21:00, Thursday and Friday 08:30 to 22:00 and Sunday 10:00 to 16:00. In the city centre, there is a Tesco Metro by the market and a larger Sainsbury’s Supermarket. You can also take the number 25 bus to St Stephens Street, walk up Queens Road and Sainsbury’s is on the right hand side. Waitrose is more expensive than the above supermarkets. It is within 20 minutes walking distance of the University. Turn right onto Bluebell Road at the exit road to the university and follow the road until you reach some traffic lights. Go straight across the traffic lights into Eaton Village and you will see Waitrose about 30 metres on the right, opposite Barclays Bank. If you live in the Village the Earlham West Centre is the nearest shopping centre for food and everyday items. There is also a pharmacy, Chinese restaurant and take-away and a variety of fast food shops. A mobile shop also visits the Village daily during Semester, including weekends.

Sport at UEA - SportsPark.

The best equipped sports centre in the region with facilities that include an Olympic sized swimming pool; fitness and aerobics centre; an athletics track; a climbing wall; four indoor sports halls; tennis courts; and pitches for a wide range of team games. There are lots of sports courses to help you learn/ improve & lots of classes ranging from martial arts to aerobics. Why not join a sports club? http://www.ueastudent.com/clubsoc This will help you to improve your English (please see Bob for more information). If you are an INTO Student, you can get a student discount and free entry to the SportsPark using your campus card (you will need to get your campus card activated – see Bob for more information). Everyone can use the SportsPark, with or without a campus card. Having your campus card activated will help you to save money. Telephone: 01603 592398. Website: www.sportspark.co.uk/ If you need to use the changing room lockers, please remember to take a 20 pence coin. The restaurant is also very good at the SportsPark and is conveniently open in the evenings and at the weekend - please see http://www.sportspark.co.uk/OpeningTimes/ for more information.

Cinema - What's on?

Most cinemas offer a student discount - please take your campus card!

To find out what’s on at the cinema, please call or see:
Odeon Cinema
01603 230414 or www.odeon.co.uk
Cinema City
01603 625145 or www.cinemacity.co.uk
VUE Cinema
08712 240240 or www.myvue.com
Hollywood Cinema
01603 621903 or www.hollywoodcinemas.net

There is a regular programme of films showing at UEA - why not buy a film pass? See http://www.ueastudent.com/ents/entsFeatures/sufilms

UEA email accounts for INTO Students.

Please note! You must check your UEA email address on a daily basis as this is a university regulation. You can do this from any computer anywhere in the world by going to http://webmail.uea.ac.uk/

Rail & Coach Timetables?

Rail: www.nationalrail.co.uk Coach: www.nationalexpress.com

Try to book rail tickets early and you may be able to save money!

N.B. The National Express bus stop is outside The Zuckerman Institute for Connective Environmental Research (ZICER) Building http://www.uea.ac.uk/polopoly_fs/1.113959!campusmap_April09_V9.pdf (map reference S7).

Looking for a part time job?

Please see http://www.employability.uea.ac.uk/

Renting houses & private accommodation?

The Student Advice Centre, next to The SUS Travel Shop, offers advice & leaflets about renting private accommodation. Please see http://www.ueastudent.com/advice

Do I have to pay Council Tax?

Full-time students on a qualifying course of education do not have to pay Council Tax. If you are renting private accommodation, INTO can supply you with a letter to confirm that you are a student. This will act as proof that you do not have to pay council tax.

Do I need to buy a Television Licence?

If you have a television you will need a Television Licence! Using a TV without a licence is against the law - please see http://www.tvlicensing.co.uk/check/index.aspx The nearest place to the UEA where you can buy a TV Licence is The Coop, Earlham Green Lane (back of Tesco’s on Fiveways Roundabout) Tel. 454518. Please take a letter from INTO, or any other letter that includes your address and postcode. Website: www.tvlicensing.co.uk Phone: 08705763763.

Why not join the Norwich Library at The Forum?

Why not join the library?
At the library you can borrow books for free, hire the latest CDs, DVDs and Playstation Games, take your children to story times, use the PCs (internet), join a reading group, access study material, research local history and access business information.

How to join.
Please get a letter from INTO Reception with your name & address on it, or a copy of any bill with your name and address on it, or a letter from your homestay family. Take this to the library and you can apply and receive your library card.

Opening Hours
Main Library
Monday - Friday 9am - 8pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm
Closed on Sundays

Express
Monday - Friday 9am – 9.30pm
Saturday 9am – 8.30pm
Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm

Children's Library
Monday - Friday 9am - 8pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm
Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm

Contact Us
Tel. 01603 774774
Telephone Renewals 0844 8008006
Website. www.library.norfolk.gov.uk

Travelling in Europe - Rail Passes.

If you are planning to travel in Europe and especially if you would like to visit many countries, it is a good idea to buy a rail pass. Please see below for more information:

http://www.interrailnet.com
http://www.simplyrail.com
http://www.raileurope.co.uk/
http://www.eurail.co.uk/
http://www.eurorailways.com/

Most of these passes can be bought on campus at The SUS Travel Shop.

You may find that you have not been here long enough (usually six months) to qualify for some of these rail passes - if this is the case, please contact Bob as there are other rail passes that you can use.

Online maps & finding post codes.

If you know the post code of any address you are trying to find, you can get a map online from www.streetmap.co.uk

To find a post code, please see http://www.royalmail.com/portal/rm/postcodefinder;jsessionid=IYCVXNLNBLBDIFB2IGFENZQUHRAYWQ2K;jsessionid=IYCVXNLNBLBDIFB2IGFENZQUHRAYWQ2K?catId=400145&gear=postcode

Storing your luggage in Norwich.

If you need to leave your luggage over the vacation period, please see below for a number of companies that offer this service:

Big Yellow Self Storage,
Canary Way, Riverside, Norwich, NR1 1WY.
T: 01603 666430. F: 01603 692339.
W: http://www.bigyellow.co.uk/storage/Norwich

Big Box Storage Centre,
Vulcan Road, Norwich NR6 6AQ.
Tel: 01603 424600
W: http://www.bigboxstorage.com/norwich.php

Hadley & Ottaway Ltd, Muspole St, Norwich, NR3 1DJ.
T: 01279 626 969.

Target Storage Service Ltd (They will collect from UEA),
Units 2a - 2e Wendover Road, Rackheath Industrial Estate, Norwich, NR13 6LH.
T: 01603 722 102.

Do you have important documents to send and want to check on delivery?

If you have important documents to send and want to check on delivery, Recorded Signed For™ is a good option. The service provides proof of posting, signature on arrival and online confirmation of delivery. It's great value too, at just 70p plus First or Second Class postage. Most First Class Recorded items arrive by the next working day. If you need Proof of Delivery, you can now see Proof of Delivery online - a copy of the actual signature that was taken as receipt of delivery - by using the online http://www.royalmail.com/portal/rm/track?catId=500185&mediaId=22700601&keyname=track_home application.
Ask for the Recorded Signed For™ service at your Post Office™ branch.

For more information, please see http://www.royalmail.com/portal/rm/jump2?catId=400028&mediaId=500201

Sending payment by post - Postal Orders.

If you fancy shopping online but don't have a bank account or simply feel nervous about handing over your personal financial details, a Postal Order bought from your local Post Office™ branch could be the answer.
Simply find what you're looking for, on an auction site like eBay for example, and make your purchase as normal. Then buy the correct value postal order in your local Post Office™ and send it to the vendor through the post. A Postal Order also offers an inexpensive way of giving you peace of mind when you're shopping by mail order, paying bills or sending a cash gift.
Now even easier to use, Postal Orders now look just like cheques with the payment amount printed in words and numbers. They're available in any value up to £250, so there's less need to buy more than one for a single purchase. You can have the payee name printed on the new style Postal Orders which makes them even more secure. With each Postal Order, you'll receive a separate receipt containing all the information you need should you wish to make an enquiry.

You will need to buy postal orders for any visa extension payments!

For prices and more information, please see
http://www.postoffice.co.uk/portal/po/jump1?catId=86500737&mediaId=73500709

British Culture.

How much do you know about Great Britain and the countries within? This website will tell you some of the fascinating facts and information about our beautiful country, in a way that is easy to read and to understand.

http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/customs/questions/

Local bus companies for travelling in Norwich.

If the FIRST Bus Company does not offer a service to where you live, it may be worth checking two other companies that provide bus services in Norwich - please see below: Anglian Coaches Bus Company: http://www.angliancoaches.co.uk/ Konect Bus Company: http://www.konectbus.co.uk/ FIRST Bus Company: http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/easterncounties/easterncounties/home/index.php

Speaking on the telephone - the Phonetic Alphabet.

You may have difficulty pronouncing the spelling of your name, or understanding an important word spoken by the person you are calling. In these situations, it is a good idea to use the Phonetic Alphabet:

A = Alpha; B = Bravo; C = Charlie; D = Delta; E = Echo; F = Foxtrot; G = Golf; H = Hotel; I = India; J = Juliet; K = Kilo; L = Lima; M = Mike; N = November; O = Oscar; P = Papa; Q = Quebec; R = Romeo; S = Sierra; T = Tango; U = Uniform; V = Victor; W = Whisky; X = X Ray; Y = Yankee; Z = Zulu.

So if your name is David, you would say: “D for Delta; A for Alpha; V for Victor; I for India; D for Delta - David”. Keep this with you when you make a phone call, or better still please try to learn it!

Buying cheaper priced rail tickets - plan ahead!

These tickets can be purchased from The SUS Travel Shop at UEA. For more information or to book online please see http://www.nationalexpresseastanglia.com/tickets_timetables/ticket_types/advance_purchase_tickets You can save money by booking your ticket in advance: http://www.thetrainline.com/buytickets/?

Places to buy Chinese & Asian Food.

China World sells Chinese/Asian food, drinks and some accessories; it’s in Dove Street (behind Tesco’s in City Centre). Students with a valid student card get a 20% discount.

The Kin Yip Chinese Supermarket sells Chinese & Asian food and is in Ber Street, approximately 200 metres from John Lewis Department Store.

There are also two stalls selling Asian food on Norwich Market.

Cheap Shopping in Norwich.

Magdalen Street has a number of interesting shops and is one of the cheapest places to shop in Norwich. You can get there from the UEA using the bus numbers 26/27. A.V. Miah Food Shop is on Magdalen Street and sells cooking ingredients from most countries around the world. There are various other similar shops to A.V. Miah along Magdalen Street. When you reach the Flyover Bridge on Magdalen Street, you can find Anglia Square - a very cheap shopping area that includes: The 99pence Shop, Roys, QD and lots of charity shops.

Public transport to & from UEA.

Bus numbers 25/25A/X25 travel to Norwich city centre from the UEA bus stops.You may wish to buy an Annual Bus Pass from The SUS Travel Shop on campus. This is the cheapest option if you use the bus often - check the price at The SUS Travel Shop on campus for free unlimited travel in Norwich by FIRST Buses for one year. You will need to show your campus card when buying this pass. Without an Annual Bus Pass, a single bus journey to the city centre will cost you £2.00. Please note that if you change from an INTO Course onto a UEA course, it is most important that you go to The SUS Travel Shop to give your new registration number on your new campus card. Your registration number will change when you change courses. The number on your campus card must be the same as the number on your bus pass - please see Bob if you need further information.

Bus number 25 travels to the city centre via Unthank Road to St. Stephen's Street & Castle Meadow, The Rail Station, Riverside & Morrisons Supermarket from the University Of East Anglia. Bus number 25A travels to the city centre via Earlham Road to St. Stephen's Street & Castle Meadow), The Rail Station, Riverside & Morrisons Supermarket from the University Of East Anglia. Bus number X25 travels directly to city centre with no stops on route. All these buses leave from The Main University Bus Stops.

For more information, please see http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/easterncounties/easterncounties/home/index.php

Directions to INTO: INTO University of East Anglia, INTO Building (Campus Map reference C15 ), is located between The Main Car Park (Campus Map reference P1 ) & The Medical Centre (Campus Map reference C16 ) on University Drive. The INTO office number is: 01603 592977 (9am-5.30pm). The INTO emergency number for use outside office hours is: 07986 957047. Campus maps can be viewed or downloaded from http://www.ueaconferences.com/docs/Campus_Map.pdf

Edinburgh Weekend:- A suggested Itinerary.

For more information, please visit the website www.visitscotland.com or www.edinburgh.org or www.rabbies.com (Tours in Scotland). www.flybe.com (Cheap Flights) www.nationalrail.co.uk (Rail Timetables). Recommended guest house accommodation - http://www.giffordhouseedinburgh.com/

Saturday Morning.
Guided bus tour of Edinburgh: This will give you an overview of the city and will highlight any areas you may wish to visit later in your stay.
Saturday Afternoon.
Edinburgh Castle: You can spend at least 2 hours exploring the Castle and the exhibitions.
Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre: This is near the entrance to the Castle and well worth a visit. They will even give you a sample at the end of the tour!
Museums & Art Galleries: Edinburgh is a very cultural city and there are many art galleries and museums that are free to enter. They are open all day up to 5.00pm on Saturday, but from 2.00pm until 5.00pm on Sunday.
Saturday Evening.
The Witchery Ghost Walk (www.witcherytours.com/) : This is a fun guided walk of Edinburgh Old Town. Please make sure that you book your ticket in advance at the Edinburgh Tourist Information Centre.
Scottish Evenings: Traditional Scottish food and traditional dancing. Please ask at the Tourist Information Centre for further information.
If you prefer to do something else, Edinburgh has many restaurants, discos and pubs aswell as a very good theatre and other arts centres. Once again, ask at the Tourist Information Centre or at your hotel for further information.
Sunday Morning:
Arthur’s Seat: After your large Scottish breakfast, take a walk to Arthur’s Seat for some spectacular views of Edinburgh. You will walk through Holyrood Park where you can also find Holyrood Palace, the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh.
Sunday Afternoon:
Last minute Shopping and please try to be on time for your train.

If you are spending slightly longer in Edinburgh, it may be worth visiting other parts of Scotland - see http://www.rabbies.com/ (Tours in Scotland).

Edinburgh is a safe city if you avoid certain areas. My advice is for you to stay together as a group at night and to take a taxi to your hotel at night. To get a taxi, you just have to put your hand out to attract the driver’s attention. He will stop if he has a small yellow light above his windscreen. I wish you a pleasant stay in Edinburgh! Please remember to take your Student I.D. Card. Bob.

Try to book rail tickets early and you may be able to save money!

Social events at UEA & What's on in Norwich.

Good websites to help you enjoy your free time! Social events at UEA http://www.ueastudent.com/ents What's on in Norwich http://www.norwichtonight.com/ The Riverside Leisure area is a popular and safe place to go during the day or in the evening. You can find many pubs & restaurants; The Odeon Cinema; & Hollywood Ten Pin Bowling at Riverside. For more information, please see http://www.riversidecentrenorwich.co.uk/web/ The Bus number 25 leaves from UEA and will take you to the rail station which is next to Riverside.

Useful information for International Students.

You can find out lots of useful information for International Students from this official website:
http://www.ukcosa.org.uk/student/index.php

Do you own a car in the UK or are you planning to buy one?

Do you own a car in the UK or are you planning to buy one? You need to have insurance; an MOT; Road Tax; and you must register your car in your name to comply with the law. Your driving licence must also be valid in the UK. These are legal requirements and a serious offence if you fail to comply. If you are unsure, please see Bob or visit the website https://www.gov.uk/non-gb-driving-licence/y/student_in_gb/non_eea_ec Please read this document carefully. If you live on campus or close to UEA you cannot park at the University.

Travelling in Europe - Schengen Visas.

If you are planning a trip outside the UK, you must make sure that you have the correct visa. It is advisable that you check this and apply well in advance of when you intend to travel. Please see http://www.ukcosa.org.uk/files/docs/immigration/schengen_faq.doc for more information about visas for European travel.

Travelling to INTO UEA from the rail station.

From Norwich rail station, you should take the 25 bus which leaves from just outside the rail station (please see the website information below to help you further). This bus will take you to the University of East Anglia.Bus 25 Timetable: http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/easterncounties/easterncounties/timetables/index.php

Directions to INTO: INTO University of East Anglia, INTO Building (Campus Map reference C15 ), is located between The Main Car Park (Campus Map reference P1 ) & The Medical Centre (Campus Map reference C16 ) on University Drive. The INTO office number is: 01603 592977 (9am-5.30pm). The INTO emergency number for use outside office hours is: 07986 957047. Campus maps can be viewed or downloaded from http://www.ueaconferences.com/docs/Campus_Map.pdf

Travelling to UEA from Heathrow.

The train will take you 1 hour and 50 minutes from London (please add further time for the transfer from Heathrow by train or tube). If you are using public transport, travelling by coach is probably a better option as this takes you from the airport to UEA (and you do not have to cross London with heavy luggage). Tickets for the bus can be bought on the bus or you can book your ticket on the internet http://www.nationalexpress.com/

Please see below for some useful websites to help you plan your journey:http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/

http://www.heathrowexpress.com/

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/

http://www.nationalexpress.com/

N.B. The National Express bus stop is outside The Zuckerman Institute for Connective Environmental Research (ZICER) Building http://www.ueaconferences.com/docs/Campus_Map.pdf (map reference S7).
Directions to INTO: INTO University of East Anglia, INTO Building (Campus Map reference C15 ), is located between The Main Car Park (Campus Map reference P1 ) & The Medical Centre (Campus Map reference C16 ) on University Drive. The INTO office number is: 01603 592977 (9am-5.30pm). The INTO emergency number for use outside office hours is: 07986 957047. Campus maps can be viewed or downloaded from http://www.ueaconferences.com/docs/Campus_Map.pdf

Cheap local rail travel tickets.

Anglia Plus Tickets:
See http://www.nationalexpresseastanglia.com/tickets_timetables/ticket_types/rangers_and_rovers This ticket offers unlimited day travel in East Anglia, and is probably the cheapest ticket for travelling to Cambridge.

Travel Timetables.

Rail: http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ Coach: http://www.nationalexpress.com/ N.B. The National Express bus stop is outside The Zuckerman Institute for Connective Environmental Research (ZICER) Building http://ueapolopoly1.uea.ac.uk:8080/polopoly/polopoly_fs/1.16687.1166108777!campusmapnov06.pdf (map reference S7). Norwich Local buses: http://www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/easterncounties/easterncounties/timetables/index.php If the FIRST Bus Company does not offer a service to where you live, it may be worth checking two other companies that provide bus services in Norwich - please see below: Anglian Coaches Bus Company:http://www.angliancoaches.co.uk/ Konect Bus Company:http://www.konectbus.co.uk/

Mobile Phones & Sim Cards.

TalkMobile World is recommended by many of our international students, particularly if you are phoning your home country. You can buy TalkMobile World Phones & Sim Cards from any of the three Carphone Warehouse stores in Norwich:

Addresses:
The Chapelfield Shopping Mall.
Brigg Street.
The Castle Shopping Mall.

Website:

http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/

Please note that you will be given a "Top Up" Card for TalkMobile World. This needs to be registered (please see Bob if you need help). This card can be used at The Union Post Office on campus, some Bank Cashpoint machines and in many shops in Norwich City Centre.

Where to buy Halal Meat in Norwich.

If you are searching for halal meat (meat butchered in an Islamic way), take bus number 25 to St Stephen's Street. From St Stephen's Street, take bus number 28 and ask for ASDA supermarket.

UK Student Travel Discount Cards.

In Britain you will need to purchase separate cards to get discounts on the coach and train systems. The international student card (ISIC) is useful as general student identification and for flights. For all student cards you will need to be a full time student for more than 20 weeks unless you are under 26.

Young Persons Coach Card: http://www.nationalexpress.com/save/index.cfm
You must be under 26 or a full time student to qualify for this card. The card costs £9.00 and will give between 20% & 30% discount for all National Express coach travel.

Young Persons Rail Card: http://www.youngpersons-railcard.co.uk/
You must be under 26 or a full time student to qualify for this card. The card costs £20.00 and will give you a 33% discount for all national railway travel.

Family Railcard: http://www.family-railcard.co.uk/
If you have your family here it may be worth buying a family railcard.

International Student Card: http://www.isiccard.com/
This is a general student identification card that may give you some discounts in cinemas/ restaurants etc. It is also useful for discounts on air travel. This card costs £7.00.

Switzerland – Travel & Tourist Information.

If you want to travel a most beautiful railway journey with amazing panoramic views, you should travel the Glacier Express: (also known as the “slowest fast train on earth“). It’s a railway journey of about 7½ hours from St. Moritz to Zermatt or vice versa. Check http://www.glacierexpress.ch/ and http://www.glacierexpress.ch/bilder-galerie/bilder-download.php for more information and photos, and http://www.glacierexpress.ch/fahrplanundpreise.php for the timetable.
There is a website in English about travelling in Switzerland, which you can check as well: http://www.myswitzerland.com .
Another website shows you that you can do according your interesets, e.g. castles, mountains etc. http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ausflugsziele.ch&langpair=de%7Cen&hl=de&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&prev=%2Flanguage_tools
http://www.swisspanoramas.ch/en/index.html is a useful website if you want to see different cities and do some sightseeing.
The city of Lucerne: http://www.luzern.ch/default.aspx?pageid=981
And last but not least, the most beautiful of all places ;-) St. Gallen http://www.st.gallen-bodensee.ch/en/welcome.cfm?
Good websites for rail travel: www.sbb.ch/en/
http://www.simplyrail.com/tickets/pass-swiss.asp?AFF=SIR#swisspass
Youth Hostels: http://www.youthhostel.ch/home.html?&L=1

Travelling In Norfolk.

Local Places To Visit:
www.tournorfolk.co.uk is a fantastic collection of photos and tourist information for Norwich and the surrounding Norfolk countryside and seaside. Take a look for some great places to visit! Please show this website to your family and friends so they can see where you are living. Other useful websites to help you plan local travel by train are www.bitternline.com & http://www.nationalexpresseastanglia.com/ There are also bus services to help you get to places you cannot reach by train www.bitternline.com/throughtickets.htm

Anglia Plus Tickets:
See http://www.nationalexpresseastanglia.com/tickets_timetables/ticket_types/rangers_and_rovers This ticket offers unlimited day travel in East Anglia, and is probably the cheapest ticket for travelling to Cambridge.