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Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has granted me a wealth of perspectives on living in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for the varied communities that contribute to its character. For students, the variety is abundant—spanning from student accommodation to private rentals, featuring options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, studio flats, private bedrooms, and shared houses.
Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings in person, whereas international students have the advantage of using websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties from afar. These platforms provide information on amenities, rent prices, and accessibility to public transportation, simplifying the search process for those located overseas.
During my housing search, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to be near the city’s major attractions, social scenes, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is organized into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the central hub. London’s transportation network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates movement between these zones. However, daily travel between zones can be as much as £5.25, prompting me to walk shorter distances when possible to save on expenses. The Oyster card has been instrumental in cutting down commuting costs.
Beyond the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the central zones, providing greater connectivity. Fares for these services depend on distance and the specific operating train company.
Residing in Central London generally entails a higher cost of living, but I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more difficult to achieve in the private rental market.
Being near essential shops was another crucial consideration for me. Proximity to supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily tasks much easier. For those on a budget, alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent options. Having these amenities nearby was especially beneficial during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be complicated due to its expansive and diverse landscape. The city’s multicultural communities are integral to its identity. Numerous international students tend to flock to areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is well-known for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight the myriad cultural enclaves that distinguish London.
Ultimately, the optimal location to live in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted by the cultural depth of a specific neighborhood or the practicality of being near campus, London has offerings for everyone. Embrace the variety, explore your possibilities, and immerse yourself in all that this remarkable city has to provide.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s