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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my ninth month of residing in London. Although this may not appear to be an extensive duration, it has provided me with significant insights into life in this vibrant city. London is an energetic and varied metropolis—not only in its population and culture, but also in the diversity of housing alternatives. Students have an abundance of choices, ranging from university residences to private rentals. This includes options with ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, arranging in-person viewings is relatively easy. In contrast, international students may explore their housing options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive listings detailing amenities and proximity to public transport, facilitating informed decisions from overseas.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to be near prominent attractions, lively social scenes, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. The city’s transport system is divided into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—simplifies travel. However, commuting between zones can be expensive, with daily inter-zonal fares up to £5.25. To economize, I often chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards make commuting more budget-friendly. Additionally, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground, covering outer zones with varying fare structures based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London comes at a higher cost, but I was fortunate enough to be sharing a living space with a friend. We opted for a shared room, which significantly reduced our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—an aspect that can be trickier in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another critical factor for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are conveniently located, while budget options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland help keep living expenses manageable. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during busy periods, like exam time.
Selecting the right area in London can be challenging due to the city’s extensive cultural diversity. Many international students tend to gravitate toward neighborhoods that resonate with their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End acts as a center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are but a few of the numerous community-oriented neighborhoods throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal living situation in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, student-friendly accommodations, or central areas, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s richness, investigate its neighborhoods, and relish everything this magnificent place has in store.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s