Studying abroad is an exciting journey, but it often comes with its own set of challenges. Between adapting to a new culture, managing academic responsibilities, and being away from family, international students can feel overwhelmed during the week. That’s why weekends play a crucial role in helping students reset, recharge, and feel more balanced.

Relaxation looks different for every student, but certain weekend habits are especially common among international students. Here are five ways students usually relax on the weekends while studying abroad.

1. Resting and Recovering After a Busy Academic Week

For international students, weekdays are often packed with lectures, assignments, and adjusting to a different education system. Weekends provide a much-needed pause.

Many students use this time to:

• Catch up on sleep

• Enjoy slow, pressure-free mornings

• Take short breaks from constant studying
  
  

Rest is essential, especially when students are adjusting to new time zones, languages, or academic expectations. Proper rest helps improve concentration, reduce stress, and prepare students for the week ahead.

Having a comfortable and quiet living space makes a big difference, allowing students to fully disconnect and relax.

2. Spending Time with Friends and Building a Support Network

Being away from home can feel lonely at times, which is why weekends often revolve around social connection. International students use their free time to strengthen friendships and build a sense of community.

Popular weekend social activities include:

• Casual meetups with classmates

• Shared meals or cooking together

• Movie nights or group study breaks

• Exploring nearby cafés together
  
  

Socialising helps students feel less isolated and more settled in their new country. Living in student accommodation with shared spaces often encourages these connections naturally, making weekends more enjoyable and meaningful.

3. Exploring the City and Experiencing Local Culture

One of the best parts of studying abroad is discovering a new city. Weekends give international students the chance to explore beyond campus and experience local life at their own pace.

Students often spend weekends:

• Walking around city centres

• Visiting museums, markets, or landmarks

• Trying local food and cafés

• Attending cultural events or festivals
  
  

These small explorations help students feel more connected to their surroundings and turn their study abroad experience into something memorable. Over time, the city starts to feel less foreign and more like home.

4. Staying Connected with Family Back Home

For international students, weekends are also a time to reconnect with loved ones. Different time zones often make weekdays difficult for long conversations, so weekends become ideal for catching up.

Students usually spend time:

• Video calling family and friends

• Sharing updates about their week

• Taking a mental break from academic pressure

Staying connected provides emotional comfort and helps students maintain a sense of stability while living abroad. Having a private and peaceful space in their accommodation makes these moments more comfortable and personal.

5. Focusing on Self-Care and Personal Interests

Weekends allow international students to slow down and focus on themselves, something that’s easy to neglect during busy weekdays.

Common self-care and hobby activities include:

• Exercising or going for walks

• Reading or journaling

• Cooking familiar meals from home

• Watching movies or series

• Practising creative hobbies
  
  

These routines help students manage stress and maintain their mental well-being. Feeling comfortable at home encourages students to build healthy habits that support both academic success and personal growth.

Why Relaxation Is Essential for International Students

Adjusting to life in a new country requires both physical and emotional energy. Without proper rest and relaxation, students may experience burnout, homesickness, or academic stress.

Balanced weekends help international students:

• Improve academic performance

• Maintain emotional well-being

• Build stronger social connections

• Enjoy their study abroad journey more fully
  
  

Choosing the right accommodation plays an important role in this balance. A supportive living environment allows students to relax, socialise, and feel secure throughout their stay.

At Casita, students can explore accommodation options designed to support comfort, community, and independence, helping them feel at home, even when they’re far from home.

Finding Balance Between Study and Relaxation

There’s no single way to relax as an international student. Some prefer quiet weekends, while others enjoy exploring and socialising. What matters most is finding a routine that helps you recharge and feel ready for the week ahead.

Whether it’s resting, spending time with friends, discovering your city, or enjoying a peaceful moment at home, weekends are an essential part of creating a positive and balanced student life abroad. For more weekend ideas, browse our guides: Top UK Weekend Activities for Students and Best UK Cities for Student Weekend Getaways on a Budget.