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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 may not seem extensive, I have gained a lot of insights during my time here. London is a vibrant and multicultural metropolis, presenting a vast range of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Whether you’re after student housing or private rentals, there’s something available for everyone—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and house shares.
For students, securing accommodation is generally uncomplicated. Home students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can use platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online. These platforms offer comprehensive details about amenities, costs, and accessibility to public transport, enhancing the process for those overseas.
When I started my hunt, I aimed to find a room in Central London. I desired to be near major sights, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London comprises six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s impressive public transport network, which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates commuting across the zones. However, traveling between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily, so I frequently opted to walk short distances to save some money. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards greatly lessen travel expenses for everyday commutes.
Apart from the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the central zones. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the operator’s pricing structure. While residing in Central London is convenient, it also carries a higher expense. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered my rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that can often be difficult to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was another key consideration for me. Easy access to supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op—along with budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland—makes running errands considerably simpler, particularly during busy exam times. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies can save a lot of time.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London is a personal choice and can be rather daunting. The city’s rich cultural mosaic is mirrored in its diverse ethnic communities, each offering a distinctive vibe. For example, Southall in West London boasts a sizeable South Asian population and features Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas provide a sense of familiarity and community for numerous international students.
In the end, the most suitable place to live in London is contingent on your lifestyle, preferences, and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, student neighborhoods, or central areas, London presents a plethora of options to explore. Embrace the richness of diversity, enjoy the ease of living, and fully experience your time in this remarkable city.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s