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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Only a few days ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. While it might not seem extensive, it’s been sufficient to acquire some precious perspectives on living in this bustling city. London boasts not just a wealth of culture and history but also presents a range of housing choices and lively communities. Regardless of whether you’re a local resident or an international student, securing accommodation is usually quite simple, thanks to the myriad of options available—ranging from student residences to private rentals, which include ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares.
For students based in the UK, scheduling property viewings is generally uncomplicated. International students, in contrast, can investigate options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive details about available homes, their amenities, and transportation connections, facilitating informed choices from overseas.
My own search for housing concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and crucially, Imperial College London. London is structured into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The excellent public transportation system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—simplifies travel around the city. Nonetheless, moving between zones can be pricey, with daily fares peaking at £5.25. To economize, I often opted for walking shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts and Oyster card options have made traveling more budget-friendly.
The city’s Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside the central hub. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator. While residing in Central London entails higher rental costs, I was lucky to share a room with a friend, significantly easing our housing expenses. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds—something that’s often more challenging in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was another crucial element for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly useful during hectic periods like finals.
Selecting the right area in London can be complex, given the city’s rich cultural variety. Numerous international students tend to favor neighborhoods that echo the culture of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian population, complete with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean influences and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a lively assortment of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the many culturally distinctive neighborhoods in London.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and inclinations. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, convenience, or closeness to your educational institution, London has something to offer for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its unique neighborhoods, and relish the thrilling adventure of establishing London as your home.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s