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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Only a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While that may not sound extensive, it has sufficed for me to gain valuable insights into life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not just for its variety of housing options but also for the diverse communities that reside here. Students particularly benefit from a wide array of living choices right at their fingertips. Whether one seeks student dormitories or private rentals, possibilities range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private or communal rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. For local students, arranging apartment viewings is relatively easy. International students can take advantage of websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate available amenities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
When I was on the hunt for a place to stay, my priority was to secure a room in Central London. I aimed to be near major landmarks, bustling social scenes, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central districts. The city’s public transportation system—consisting of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares climbing as high as £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transportation. That being said, student discounts and the Oyster card options significantly diminish commuting expenses. In addition to the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach regions beyond the central zones, with fares varying depending on the distance and provider.
Residing in Central London does entail a higher cost. Thankfully, I was able to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a fellow university student. This arrangement allowed us to save significantly on rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation since I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times such as exam season when every minute counts.
Selecting the right area in London can be difficult. The city’s cultural wealth is manifested in its numerous ethnic communities, each enriching the distinctive character of its locale. Many international students search for neighborhoods that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community and boasts Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End showcases an exciting mix of Chinese cuisine, retail shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the city’s countless cultural hubs.
Ultimately, the ideal living arrangement in London relies on your personal tastes and lifestyle requirements. Whether you are captivated by the cultural richness of certain neighborhoods or the practicalities of being near campus, London caters to all preferences. Embrace the diversity, investigate your choices, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorized under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s