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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London. Although this period might not seem extensive, I’ve accumulated substantial insights about residing in this lively city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history while providing a broad array of accommodation choices and varied communities, establishing it as a distinctive place to live—especially for students.
Students have a plethora of housing options available to them. Whether seeking student-focused accommodations or private rentals, there is an abundance of choices. These include ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For home students, arranging apartment viewings tends to be fairly easy. In contrast, international students frequently depend on online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings, compare features, and assess closeness to public transportation.
In my own quest for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transport system—which includes the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares peaking at £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts and Oyster card options considerably lessen commuting expenses.
London Overground and National Rail services also reach beyond the Underground network, extending to outer zones. Fares for these services depend on distance and the pricing model of the operator. Although residing in Central London tends to be more expensive, I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which alleviated some of the rental burden. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation with the hope of connecting with peers from various backgrounds and ages—something that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another critical consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are ubiquitous, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, particularly during demanding exam periods when every moment counts.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting due to its immense variety. The city is a tapestry of ethnic communities, each contributing its unique essence to the urban environment. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that resonate with the culture of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a diverse selection of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of the many cultural hubs scattered throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal place to dwell in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to the convenience of central locations, the affordability of outer zones, or the cultural vibrancy of specific neighborhoods, London has offerings for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore your choices, and fully enjoy your experience in this remarkable metropolis.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s