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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has certainly provided ample opportunity to discover numerous aspects of life in this vibrant city. London is rich not only in its diversity of people and cultures, but it also presents a wide array of accommodation possibilities for students. From student housing to private rentals, there is an option to fit every taste and financial plan. Choices include ensuite and shared bathroom arrangements, private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
Booking in-person viewings is quite manageable for home students. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse available listings online. These sites offer comprehensive details on amenities, costs, and distance to public transport, facilitating planning ahead of arrival in the UK.
During my search for accommodation, my priority was to find a room in Central London. Proximity to Imperial College and the city’s primary attractions and social venues was essential to me. London is organized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being located at the heart of the city. The public transport system is exceptional, featuring the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, making it relatively straightforward to move between zones. Nonetheless, commuting across zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I often opted to walk shorter distances to economize.
The Oyster card has revolutionized commuting, greatly lowering travel expenses for students. In addition to the Tube, services such as London Overground and National Rail reach areas outside the central zones. Pricing on these options varies based on distance and the operator’s rate structure.
Living in Central London does entail a steeper rental cost. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which helped us minimize our expenses. We chose intercollegiate student accommodation, allowing us to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—an opportunity less common in private rentals.
Accessibility to essential stores was another key consideration. Being near grocery chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified my daily shopping. For more economical options, I frequently shopped at Aldi, Lidl, or Iceland. Having these stores close by was particularly helpful during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vast and varied environment. London boasts many lively ethnic communities contributing to its rich cultural diversity. For instance, Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population and features numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End, is filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods provide a sense of belonging and community for international students seeking ties to their heritage.
In the end, the best living situation in London is contingent upon your individual needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, seeking convenience, or looking to fully engage in student life, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its many neighborhoods, and optimize your experience in this remarkable city.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s