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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like an extended period, I’ve had ample opportunity to gain valuable insights into life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not just for its vast array of accommodation options but also for the multitude of communities that inhabit it. Whether you are a local resident or an international student, you have a wealth of housing choices available—from rooms with ensuites and shared bathrooms to private lodgings, studio apartments, and house shares.
For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly straightforward. Conversely, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport links.
During my hunt for a place to stay, I concentrated on Central London. My aim was to be in proximity to the city’s key attractions, vibrant social scenes, and crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central areas. The city boasts an excellent public transport system, including the Underground, buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation across zones. However, traveling between zones can accumulate expenses, costing up to £5.25 each day. To save on costs, I often opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking public transit. Fortunately, student Oyster cards can substantially lower commuting expenses for university attendees.
In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services venture beyond the central zones, offering wider coverage. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and specific train operators.
Residing in Central London inevitably comes with a hefty price tag, but I was fortunate to attend university alongside a friend. We chose to share a room, which significantly alleviated our rent burden. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an aspect that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
The proximity to grocery stores was another vital consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are conveniently available, while budget-friendly retailers such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater perfectly to students looking to save. Living near essential shops and pharmacies is especially beneficial during hectic periods like exam times.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its numerous ethnic communities, each providing a distinct living experience. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its thriving South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is known for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods offer a sense of familiarity for many international students and are ideal places to discover.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you’re inclined towards cultural enclaves, student-friendly accommodations, or central locations, London has a little something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your choices, and savor everything this remarkable city has to offer.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s