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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although that may not seem extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to gain insight into life within this vibrant city. London is exceptionally lively—not only due to its varied housing arrangements, but also because of the rich mix of communities that inhabit it. For students, the range of accommodation options is vast, spanning from university-operated student housing to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. While local students can easily conduct in-person viewings, international students have the option to check listings online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive details about amenities and closeness to public transport, making it more manageable to navigate from abroad.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s main attractions, social scenes, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College London. London is divided into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an extensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—which simplifies getting around. Nevertheless, travelling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares climbing up to £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. That said, student discounts through Oyster cards significantly lessen commuting costs. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, providing access to outer zones. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London does carry a higher cost, but I was lucky to attend university alongside a friend. We made the decision to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to meet individuals from diverse backgrounds who are of similar age—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
An essential consideration for me was the availability of necessary stores. Having easy access to supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily tasks more manageable. For more economical choices, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Proximity to grocery stores and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic periods like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s cultural richness is mirrored in its numerous ethnic enclaves, providing a sense of comfort for international students. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is notable for its Afro-Caribbean roots and pulsating music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling neighbourhood filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These areas are just a few illustrations of the rich cultural fabric that distinguishes London.
Ultimately, the best place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re seeking cultural familiarity, closeness to campus, or budget-friendly choices, London has something to suit everyone’s needs. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its numerous neighbourhoods, and fully experience all that this remarkable place has to offer.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s