Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while this duration might appear brief, it has provided ample opportunity to gain insights about life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for the communities that enrich its tapestry. For students, housing availability is abundant—offering everything from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently arrange to view places in person, while international students can make use of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate listings online, review facilities, and evaluate access to public transit.
As I commenced my search for accommodation, my aim was to settle in Central London. I sought to be near the city’s key attractions, nightlife, and, most importantly, Imperial College. London is organized into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel across these zones. However, commuting between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily, prompting me to frequently walk shorter distances to cut costs. Nonetheless, the discounted Oyster card options have made travel more budget-friendly for students. The London Overground and National Rail services also extend beyond the Underground, providing access to outer zones, though ticket prices vary depending on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London carries a steep cost, yet I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, eager to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be less accessible in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily found, along with more budget-conscious alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland that deliver excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies streamlined daily tasks—particularly during hectic exam times.
Selecting the right neighbourhood is one of the most daunting aspects of relocating to London. The city’s multicultural enclaves are a hallmark, providing a sense of belonging for numerous international students. For instance, Southall in West London is celebrated for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End thrives as a buzzing center of Chinese culinary delights, shops, and cultural festivities. These districts are merely a few illustrations of the cultural vibrancy London has in store.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or affordability, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, discover the neighbourhoods, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s