A few days back, it marked the ninth month since my relocation to London. While this period isn’t lengthy, I’ve absorbed quite a lot. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its varied housing selections but also because of its lively communities. Students have a wide array of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to view prospective lodgings online, examine available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down travel expenses as inter-zone commutes can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs near major attractions in Central London are noteworthy. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would be more challenging in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent only a handful of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under Uncategorized
Tagged accommodation, Housing, London Life, master’s