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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although it may not seem lengthy, it’s been sufficient for me to acquire some valuable knowledge about living in this dynamic city. London is celebrated not just for its extensive range of housing options but also for its rich mix of communities. Regardless of whether you’re a resident or an international scholar, there are numerous housing possibilities available—from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio flats and shared homes.
For local students, setting up apartment viewings is fairly simple. In contrast, international students can take advantage of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which facilitate virtual tours and offer detailed information on facilities and transportation links.
When I started my hunt for a living space, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I desired to be near the city’s primary attractions, social hubs, and most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central regions. The city boasts an excellent public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—which makes navigation easy. However, crossing between zones can rack up costs of up to £5.25 daily, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances for cost efficiency. Thankfully, discounts for students on Oyster cards significantly lower travel expenses.
Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the central zones, providing broader connectivity. The fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the operators.
Living in Central London certainly comes with a hefty price tag, but I was lucky enough to be studying with a friend. We opted to share a room, which allowed us to lower our rent. I decided on intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can often be trickier to find in private accommodations.
Convenience to essential services was another important consideration for me. Being near grocery retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made everyday tasks much simpler. For more budget-conscious choices, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent options. Access to these amenities is particularly advantageous during busy times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be challenging. The city is a tapestry of ethnic communities, each enriching its unique cultural environment. Many international students gravitate toward areas that grant a sense of familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian presence, complete with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean roots and vibrant music culture. Additionally, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the diverse neighbourhoods that contribute to London’s charm.
In the end, the ideal living situation in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you lean towards cultural hubs, convenience, or affordability, London presents a vast selection of choices. Embrace the variety, discover the neighbourhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable city.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s