Safety
The UK is a relatively safe country. The police do not usually carry guns, and there are strict controls on the ownership of weapons. However, crime rates have increased in recent years, partly due to an increase in the use of illegal drugs. There are pickpockets in busy areas, so hold on to your belongings carefully. There are not many insects, snakes or dangerous animals in the UK. There is very little risk of earthquakes, hurricanes or other natural disasters, although flooding sometimes occurs in low areas. As in many other parts of the world, there is some risk of terrorist attack.
Work
If you are given a student visa when you enter the UK, you are allowed to work part-time. The cost of living in the UK (for example, accommodation and food) is quite high, so many students want to find part-time or holiday jobs so that they can afford to stay longer. Employment opportunities exist: unemployment is quite low in many parts of the UK, and there are shortages in certain professions such as nurses and teachers. Voluntary work has a long history in the UK and is usually well-organised. The number of holidays people can take is quite high compared to some other countries, and members of staff are usually encouraged to take them.
Education
The British educational system has a good reputation. Accredited qualifications obtained from British schools and universities are recognised in most parts of the world. There are courses in a wide variety of subjects, including many which are open to international students. Language teaching methods in the UK are well developed, although the quality of teaching at language schools can vary a lot. If a language school is recognised by the British Council, it is regularly checked to check that general standards are high.
Food
British food does not have a good reputation overseas. However, there is in fact a very wide variety of food available (both traditional British food and international cuisine), especially in the bigger cities. There are many fresh ingredients, which are delicious when cooked well. However, many busy people don't pay much attention to preparing food well and prefer instant meals.
Heritage
Britain has an interesting history and is good at preserving its traditions and old buildings and gardens. There are many museums and art galleries.
Environment
There are many green areas, including beautiful parks, gardens and public footpaths. There are many coastal areas, but only a few of these have sandy beaches. The bigger cities sometimes appear dirty and polluted, but usually this isn't bad enough to cause any serious problems for visitors.
Weather
The British weather is quite moderate. In general the summers are not too hot, and the winters are not too cold. Days are short in the middle of winter (it gets dark before 4pm in December), and long in the middle of summer (it remains light until after 10pm in June). There is usually more rain in the west of the country, and more sunshine in the south. Britain is not an ideal location if you want to sunbathe on a beach or swim in the sea, but the weather is pleasant enough for studying or working, especially between the spring and autumn.