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Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Only a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this might not appear to be an extensive period, I have gained considerable insights about living in this vibrant city. London is not just abundant in culture and diversity; it also presents a wide range of housing options that accommodate various lifestyles and financial plans. Whether you seek student accommodations or private rentals, there are numerous possibilities—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio apartments and shared houses. For local students, organizing apartment viewings is fairly straightforward, while international students can discover options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive details on amenities, rental costs, and access to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, I concentrated on Central London. I desired to be near key attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the Imperial College campus. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transportation system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitating travel between zones. However, traveling between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 per day, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to save money. Luckily, student discounts on Oyster cards help to make commuting less expensive. For extended trips, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, although fares differ based on the specific route and operator.
Residing in Central London tends to be more expensive, but I managed to cut down on costs by sharing a room with a university friend. We selected intercollegiate student housing, which enabled us to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often less accessible in private rentals.
Accessibility to essential shops was another critical consideration for me. Being nearby supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made running daily errands significantly more manageable. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Having these stores in close proximity was especially beneficial during hectic exam periods when time was scarce.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood in London can be quite daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, replete with numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End showcases a rich assortment of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are just a glimpse of the cultural enclaves that give London its distinctive character.
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or affordability, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, traverse its many neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable place.
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By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s