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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be an extended period, I have gained extensive knowledge throughout this time. London is an energetic and varied city, not only regarding its cultures and communities but also concerning accommodation possibilities. Whether you are a resident or an international student, there is a broad range of housing options available—from ensuite and shared rooms to studio flats and house shares.
Students can choose from both university-managed residences and private rentals. Local students usually benefit from the ability to attend viewings in person, while international students can leverage websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore listings online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about facilities, prices, and distances to public transport, facilitating informed choices from a distance.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be nearby the city’s major tourist attractions, lively social scenes, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is divided into six travel zones, where Zones 1 and 2 encompass the central areas. The city boasts a wide-ranging and efficient public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—making navigation straightforward. However, daily travel between zones can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to walk shorter distances when feasible to cut costs. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenses.
Aside from the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into outer zones, providing broader access. Fares fluctuate depending on distance and the service provider, so it’s advisable to check beforehand.
Residing in Central London comes with a steeper cost, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which helped lower our rent. We opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, which enabled us to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and around our age—a community aspect that is often less prevalent in private rentals.
Accessibility to vital shops was another critical consideration for me. Being close to supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op—or more economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland—significantly eased daily tasks, particularly during hectic exam seasons.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be challenging due to the city’s remarkable cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to congregate in areas that resonate with their cultural identities. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center for Chinese food, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are just a few examples of the rich cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the optimal living location in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or closeness to your university, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous neighbourhoods, and savor everything this remarkable city has to offer.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s