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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 period, it has provided me with ample opportunity to gain insight into life within this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its range of housing options but also for its lively and diverse communities. Students have an abundance of choices regarding accommodation—be it student residences or private rentals, there are options to fit every taste, including ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite simple. Meanwhile, international students can utilize online resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate available accommodations, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport—all while still overseas.
During my search for a place to stay, my priority was to find a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s major sights, social hotspots, and most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six layered travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—that facilitates easy movement. However, traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily, so I frequently opted to walk short distances for cost savings. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards help make commuting more budget-friendly. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube, covering regions outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London comes at a steep price, but I was lucky to go to university with a friend. We opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our expenses. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—a challenge in private rentals.
Convenience was another crucial factor in my housing decision. Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies conserves time—especially during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can prove challenging. The city’s multicultural communities are an essential aspect of its character, offering a rich mix of cultures and experiences. Numerous international students look for areas that evoke the comfort of home. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its large South Asian community, featuring a variety of Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In the core of the West End, Chinatown provides an engaging experience with its Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few highlights of London’s varied neighbourhoods.
In the end, the best location to live in London is determined by your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re searching for cultural familiarity, social prospects, or closeness to your university, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its unique communities, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s