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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 might seem like a brief period, it has provided me with ample opportunity to familiarize myself with life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and diversity, but it also presents an extensive range of accommodation options for students. Whether you’re in search of student housing or private rentals, there’s a variety of choices available—ensuites and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares are all easily obtainable. For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is a breeze, while international students can investigate options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites offer comprehensive listings, complete with amenities and proximity to public transport.
When I commenced my accommodation search, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. I aspired to be near the city’s key attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, amounting to as much as £5.25 daily. To save on costs, I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than use the Tube or bus. Thankfully, the Oyster card system provides discounted fares for students, rendering daily commutes more economical. In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail link areas beyond the central zones, though fares fluctuate based on distance and train operator.
Living in Central London comes with a higher price tag, but I managed to lower my expenses by sharing a room with a fellow student. We chose intercollegiate student accommodation, which enabled us to connect with other students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was a crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more budget-conscious options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland offer excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during busy periods like exams, when every moment is valuable.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s sprawling and multicultural nature. Many international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is known for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a rich variety of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal location to live in London hinges on your individual needs and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural diversity, convenience, or lively student atmosphere, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the wide array of housing options, delve into the different communities, and take full advantage of what this remarkable city has to provide.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s