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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might seem like a brief period, it has certainly afforded me valuable perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is renowned not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for its inclusive and diverse communities. Students particularly enjoy an abundance of choices regarding accommodation. Whether you’re interested in student halls or private rentals, there are numerous possibilities—ensuite rooms and shared bathrooms, private and communal living spaces, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling a viewing is generally straightforward. For those coming from overseas, websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom simplify the process of browsing potential accommodations online, reviewing available amenities, and evaluating proximity to public transport.
During my search for housing, my main goal was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London comprises six concentric transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transportation network—consisting of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be costly, sometimes reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted for walking shorter distances rather than relying on public transportation. Nevertheless, student Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenses.
In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend into outer zones, providing wider coverage. Fares on these services differ depending on distance and the pricing policies of train operators. While residing in Central London provides unmatched accessibility and convenience to attractions, it does come at a premium. Luckily, I managed to share accommodation with a friend, helping us to reduce total rent costs. I chose intercollegiate student housing with the intent of meeting peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was another key consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonplace, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, particularly during hectic exam periods when time is scarce.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s rich cultural variety is evident in its numerous ethnic neighborhoods. Many international students often look for familiarity in their surroundings. For instance, Southall in West London is characterized by a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End boasts a lively assortment of Chinese food, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few of the distinctive neighborhoods contributing to London’s cultural tapestry.
In the end, the most suitable area to reside in London relies on your individual preferences and desires. Whether you are enticed by the cultural wealth of particular communities or the ease of living centrally, the city caters to all. Cherish the diversity, explore the possibilities, and fully experience all that this amazing city has to offer.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s