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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a handful of days ago, I marked nine months residing in London. While this duration might not appear extensive, it’s provided me with essential perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is celebrated not just for its diverse range of housing options but also for its lively and multicultural neighborhoods. Whether you’re a resident or an overseas student, there is an abundance of housing alternatives—from ensuite rooms and shared accommodations to studio flats and house shares. Students from the UK can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
When I kicked off my hunt for a place to stay, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six circular travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport system—including the Tube, buses, and trains—making navigation convenient. However, traveling between zones daily can cost as much as £5.25, prompting me to walk shorter distances to economize. That said, student discounts and Oyster card options have made commuting more manageable financially. For longer trips, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground, with fares fluctuating based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London often comes with a steep cost, but I had the advantage of studying alongside a friend. We opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—an experience that would be more challenging to achieve in private housing.
The closeness to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly practical, particularly during hectic exam times.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood in London can be quite difficult. The city is a tapestry of ethnic communities, each contributing to its rich cultural fabric. Numerous international students favor areas that mirror the cultures of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a lively blend of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely examples of the many culturally vibrant neighborhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and lifestyle requirements. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, student districts, or central spots, London presents a multitude of choices. Embrace the city’s diversity, venture into its unique neighborhoods, and fully experience all that this remarkable place has to offer.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s