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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a short time ago, I reached the nine-month mark of my stay in London. Although this duration may appear brief, it has provided me with significant insights into life within this vibrant city. London boasts an abundant history and culture, along with a diverse array of housing options and lively communities. Whether you are a local resident or an international student, there are ample living arrangements available—from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, studio apartments, shared flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, organizing apartment viewings tends to be fairly simple. Conversely, international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to navigate listings online, evaluate available amenities, and consider their distance from public transport.
During my search for housing, my primary focus was securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key tourist spots, social gathering places, and most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being at the heart. London’s public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation throughout the city. Nevertheless, daily travel between zones can cost as much as £5.25, leading me to frequently walk shorter distances to conserve funds. However, the student discounts available through the Oyster card make commuting more economical. Additionally, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube, reaching outer zones with different fare structures depending on the distance and service provider.
Living in Central London certainly comes with elevated costs. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a fellow university student, greatly lowering our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that could be more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students aiming to economize. Residing near essential services like supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly helpful during hectic periods such as exam time.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be complex, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural character, and many international students look for areas that provide a sense of familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich variety of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the numerous cultural enclaves that make London exceptional.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London varies according to your personal requirements and preferences. Whether you seek convenience, community, or culture, London has something to offer. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighborhoods, and relish everything this extraordinary place has in store.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s