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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a substantial period, it has given me ample opportunities to discover a lot about life in this lively city. London boasts an abundance of culture and diversity, alongside a wide array of housing options tailored to various preferences and necessities. Whether you seek student accommodations or private rentals, there is something available for everyone—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and shared houses.
For students, securing accommodation is fairly simple. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule in-person viewings, while international students can investigate options online using platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer detailed listings, encompassing amenities and proximity to public transportation, facilitating informed choices from a distance.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near Imperial College, key attractions, and the city’s social hotspots. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most centrally located. The city’s extensive public transport network—comprising the Underground, buses, and trains—makes it easy to commute between zones. However, travel expenses can accumulate; for example, inter-zonal travel might cost as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I often opted to walk for short distances instead of relying on public transport. That being said, discounts for students on Oyster cards greatly alleviate commuting costs.
In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail span areas beyond the central zones. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing schemes of train operators.
Residing in Central London does come with a steep price. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which assisted us in reducing our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, anticipating the chance to connect with other students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—a contrast to private rentals.
The accessibility of grocery stores was another vital aspect of my housing choice. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students aiming to save money. Living near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during busy periods like exam time.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s expansive and diverse environment. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural essence, and numerous international students are drawn to locations that resonate with their heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural celebrations.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal requirements and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural communities, proximity to your campus, or affordable living, London provides a plethora of choices. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighborhoods, and relish everything this vibrant metropolis has in store.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s