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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 appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient for me to gather insightful perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of history and culture, in addition to an array of housing options and lively communities. Whether you are a local resident or an international student, there is an abundance of housing selections available—from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, studios, shared apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling viewings is quite straightforward. For those coming from abroad, websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom prove extremely valuable for exploring listings, assessing amenities, and familiarizing oneself with transportation links—all from overseas.
When I began my housing search, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to be near Imperial College as well as the city’s major attractions and lively social scenes. London consists of six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, commuting between zones can result in costs of up to £5.25 per journey, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card has revolutionized travel affordability for students. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares fluctuate based on distance and the train service provider.
Residing in Central London certainly entails a higher expense, but I was lucky to attend university alongside a friend. We opted to share a room, which allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, anticipating to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something which is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Convenience was another crucial aspect in selecting my living arrangements. Proximity to grocery stores and pharmacies streamlined daily tasks, particularly during hectic exam times. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for students aiming to conserve funds.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that reflect their cultural heritages. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a rich selection of Chinese dishes, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a handful of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the best place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the energy of Central London or the allure of a culturally diverse neighbourhood, the city presents an option for everyone. Embrace the variety, explore your choices, and fully enjoy your experience in this remarkable city.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s