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Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I marked nine months of residency in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has certainly been sufficient to acquire invaluable perspectives on life within this dynamic city. London is not just abundant in culture and history; it also provides a diverse range of accommodation choices and vibrant communities. Whether you are a local resident or an international student, securing a place to stay here offers numerous options—from student housing to private rentals, such as ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
For home students, organizing viewings is fairly simple. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse available properties virtually. These websites deliver comprehensive details regarding amenities, prices, and the proximity to public transportation, greatly simplifying the search process.
During my quest for accommodation, I prioritized Central London. My aim was to be near the city’s main attractions, social hubs, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s robust public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between zones. However, daily inter-zonal journeys can reach costs of up to £5.25, so I often opted to walk shorter distances to conserve funds. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards make commuting more budget-friendly.
In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the central zones. The fares for these services are contingent on the distance and each operator’s pricing model. While residing in Central London can be pricey due to its prime positioning, I managed to reduce costs by sharing a room with a friend. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which not only aided us in lowering rent but also facilitated interactions with other students from a myriad of backgrounds—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Closeness to grocery stores was another significant aspect of my housing choice. Being situated near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op streamlined daily errands. For more economical choices, outlets like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent alternatives. Having these essentials within reach is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, yet the city’s multicultural environment offers something for everyone. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that echo their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is well-known for its substantial South Asian community and features Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is lauded for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Centrally located in the West End, Chinatown showcases a rich variety of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of the myriad vibrant communities that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal place to call home in London depends on your individual preferences and interests. Whether your inclination is toward cultural neighborhoods, student communities, or central locations, London truly has something for all. Embrace the city’s diversity, capitalize on its extensive housing choices, and relish everything this remarkable city has to offer.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s