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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be a long duration, it has been sufficient for me to acquire substantial knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history and also presents a myriad of housing options and lively communities. Regardless of whether you are a resident or an international student, there is an array of housing selections available—from student accommodations to private rentals, comprising ensuite rooms, shared flats, studios, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling viewings is relatively easy. Conversely, international students can utilize online resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to survey available properties, review amenities, and evaluate how close they are to public transit.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London to remain near major attractions, social spots, and particularly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates commuting across zones. Nonetheless, daily inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25, prompting me to walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card and student travel reductions significantly lessen commuting expenses. Additionally, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground system, linking outer zones to the city center with various fare schemes depending on the route and operator.
Residing in Central London comes with a higher expense; however, I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which aided us in reducing our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with individuals from different backgrounds and age groups—something that is tougher to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was also a key consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, whereas economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Having essential shops nearby proves particularly convenient during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting, given the extensive and diverse nature of London. The city hosts numerous ethnic communities, each contributing its unique touch to the cultural tapestry. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian demographic, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a lively assortment of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods not only offer a sense of familiarity for international students but also enhance the city’s multicultural vibrancy.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on one’s personal tastes and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural epicenters, student communities, or tranquil residential areas, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity, discover the neighborhoods, and relish everything this remarkable city provides.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s