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**Settling Down in London: My Journey After Nine Months**
*Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone living in London. While that might not appear to be an extended period, it has allowed me to gain considerable insights into the city — particularly regarding securing accommodation. London is a dynamic and multicultural metropolis, reflected not only in its cultural scene but also in its housing alternatives. Students can choose from a variety of options, ranging from student halls to private rentals, encompassing everything from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared houses and individual apartments.
For domestic students, scheduling viewings is fairly simple. In contrast, international students can browse options online via websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which feature comprehensive listings, amenities, and details about local transport connections.
During my accommodation search, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social hubs, and, most crucially, Imperial’s campus. London comprises six concentric transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. Thanks to the superb public transport network — including the Tube, buses, and trains — getting around is generally straightforward. However, traveling between zones can become costly, reaching up to £5.25 per day. To save some cash, I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, discounted Oyster card options have made commuting to university considerably more budget-friendly. Apart from the Underground, services like London Overground and National Rail link the outer zones, although fares differ based on distance and operator.
Living in Central London comes with a hefty price tag. Thankfully, I was able to split a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups — something that can be trickier to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was another vital consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent savings. Residing close to essential shops and pharmacies was especially handy during hectic exam seasons when time was of the essence.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s extensive cultural diversity. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, complete with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its lively Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few illustrations of London’s many culturally enriched neighborhoods.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and interests. My suggestion to anyone on the hunt for a new home here is to appreciate the city’s diversity, explore its distinctive communities, and relish everything this amazing city has to offer.
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*By Guest Blogger*
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s
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