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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been sufficient to develop a thorough comprehension of life within this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of history and culture, alongside a plethora of housing options and varied communities. For students, the selection is abundant—from university-provided accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
Local students typically benefit from the opportunity to attend viewings in person, whereas international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online. These sites offer comprehensive information about amenities and location relative to public transport, simplifying the planning process.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s principal attractions, social hubs, and, most critically, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transport system—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation throughout the city. However, traveling between zones can incur significant costs, occasionally reaching £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. Luckily, discounted Oyster card options for students considerably lessen commuting expenses.
In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend into the outer zones, enhancing connectivity. Fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of the train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with a steeper price, but I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a friend who was also a university student. We chose intercollegiate student housing, which allowed us to connect with peers from various universities and cultural backgrounds—an experience that’s more challenging to obtain in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was also a priority for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right area in London can be daunting, given the city’s extensive and diverse landscape. London’s multicultural neighborhoods are a hallmark feature, providing a sense of familiarity for numerous international students. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich selection of Chinese culinary offerings, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas are just a handful of the cultural variety that makes London exceptional.
In the end, the optimal place to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to the cultural depth of a particular community or the practicality of being near campus, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your possibilities, and take pleasure in all that this remarkable city has in store.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s