LSE Summer School Review: Emma & Tatum
Pictured (left to right): Guest Emma, host Mo, and guest Tatum.
Meet Tatum and Emma
Tatum and Emma are best friends from the US who spent summer 2025 studying at the prestigious London School of Economics (LSE) as part of its Summer School programme.
Tatum, who studies Finance and Real Estate at the University of Miami – Herbert Business School, took a course in Bargaining and Negotiations. Emma, who studies Business Administration and Management at Bucknell University, focused on Marketing during her time at LSE.
It was Tatum’s first time in London, and Emma’s second – though her first visit with friends. They were excited to explore the city together and immerse themselves in local life.
Why they chose Student Luxe
Tatum and Emma came across Student Luxe after a friend ran a Google search for apartment-style housing in London. They were looking for a safe, clean, and well-located alternative to traditional student halls – somewhere modern, with great amenities and a sense of privacy.
Mo, our Head of Sales, dealt with their enquiry, and found them Bell Yard House in Holborn – a stylish residence just off the Strand, close to Lincoln’s Inn Fields, LSE, and major London landmarks.
From that first interaction, they were sold. “Mo was super helpful and accommodating,” says Tatum. “The booking process was seamless.” Their experience shows how essential it is to find the right LSE summer accommodation early – especially during peak periods.
About their Bell Yard House apartment
Tatum booked a spacious 2-bedroom apartment at Bell Yard House for herself, Emma, and two other friends from back home. The apartment offered everything they were looking for:
Air conditioning.
In-unit laundry (washer and dryer).
A fully equipped kitchen.
High-quality bathrooms.
Bike storage.
Fast Wi-Fi.
Elevator access.
For them, the kitchen was essential – especially for a longer stay where cooking at home was part of the plan.
They immediately noticed how clean, modern, and well-kept the property was. “It ticked every box,” says Emma. “Private, secure, and close to both the university and London’s best sights and shops.”
“The apartment was the envy of our friends,” laughs Tatum. “Everyone wanted to stay with us.” That’s the power of finding standout LSE summer accommodation that balances comfort, style, and location.
The Neighbourhood: Holborn
Tatum and Emma loved living in Holborn. They describe the area as clean, safe, and full of character – offering a village feel within the heart of a bustling global city. With cosy pubs, independent cafés, and stunning architecture on their doorstep, they settled in quickly.
They also appreciated how central the location was. “We were close to everything – LSE, Covent Garden, the West End, and the Thames,” says Emma. “We could walk nearly everywhere and rarely needed a map.”
Tatum adds that while the first few days involved some adjusting – especially navigating cultural differences between the US and UK – they quickly adapted. “Student Luxe really helped us get oriented,” she says. “From finding the nearest pharmacy to understanding the local area.”
Emma was particularly struck by how clean the city felt. “You can see the difference in the air,” she says. “There’s none of the visible pollution we get in places like New York.”
Their choice of LSE summer accommodation clearly played a role in helping them settle quickly and comfortably into London life.
Exploring London
Outside of class, Tatum and Emma packed their schedules with sightseeing and local experiences. They visited Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the British Museum. They explored Notting Hill, strolled through Borough Market, shopped at Harrods, and even did a scheduled tour of Buckingham Palace.
They also loved the local charm around their apartment – frequenting nearby cafes, visiting Lincoln’s Inn Fields, and discovering hidden shops.
Safety and support
For Tatum and Emma – and their families – safety was a top priority. They were reassured by the secure setup at Bell Yard House, including electronic keypads and a tight-knit community feel.
“Our parents wanted to know we’d be safe,” says Tatum. “And we felt that instantly with Student Luxe. The building was secure, modern, and the service was fantastic.”
She adds: “You can’t feel clean unless you have a clean space to be in – and this place gave us that. The housekeeping was amazing. We didn’t have one issue.”
That peace of mind is one of the many reasons they recommend Student Luxe to others looking for LSE summer accommodation with strong support and a sense of community.
What they loved most
What stood out for both Tatum and Emma was the attention to detail. The apartment was fully-equipped and beautifully maintained. Our team was consistently available and quick to respond – whether by text or in person.
“The support made us feel welcome from day one,” says Emma. “You were always there, always helpful.”
Tatum also appreciated how living in London gave them access to the rest of Europe. During their stay, they travelled to the South of France – an easy trip thanks to London’s excellent travel connections.
In their words, the Bell Yard House felt like a true home base – a luxurious and practical space that supported their studies, their friendships, and their adventures abroad. For students planning a similar experience, it’s a great example of what top-tier LSE summer accommodation can offer.
View LSE Summer School Apartments
At Student Luxe, we provide premium accommodation in London – offering stylish apartments, flexible stays, and dedicated support. Whether you're joining a summer programme at LSE, studying longer-term, or just visiting on business, our properties are designed to feel like home from day one.
Check out our other guest stories to discover what life in London is really like with Student Luxe. From settling in to exploring the city, our student reviews offer real insights into living, studying, and making unforgettable memories here.
