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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has certainly given me ample opportunity to discover a great deal about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history, but it also provides a myriad of housing options and lively communities for students hailing from across the globe.
Securing student accommodation in London is comparatively easy, owing to the multitude of options available. Whether you’re after student residences or private rentals, there’s a suitable match for every taste and budget—ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and shared houses are all prevalent choices. For local students, setting up apartment viewings is simple, while international students can browse listings and virtual tours via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites also offer useful insights regarding amenities and transport connections.
During my search for housing, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transportation system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, commuting between zones can be pricey, with daily inter-zonal fares reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opt to walk short distances instead of using public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards render commuting more budget-friendly. Services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the central zones, although fares depend on the distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a higher cost of living, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which greatly eased our rental expenses. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation as I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds who were also experiencing a similar life phase. This kind of diversity and sense of community is harder to achieve in private rentals.
Convenience to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made everyday tasks considerably easier. For more economical alternatives, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices. Having essential shopping nearby is particularly advantageous during hectic periods like exam season.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be daunting, but the city’s multicultural fabric helps in finding a place that feels like home. Many international students tend to favor areas reflecting their cultural roots. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, abundant with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, is yet another lively area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are merely a few examples of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s distinctive character.
In the end, the ideal area to reside in hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you seek convenience, affordability, cultural resonance, or a sense of community, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the various neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable city.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s