Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that might not seem extensive, it has provided ample opportunity to understand life in this vibrant city. London boasts not only a rich tapestry of culture and diversity but also a plethora of housing choices designed for students. Whether you are in search of student accommodations or private rentals, there’s certainly something to fit every need—ensuites and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares are all readily accessible. For those based at home, arranging apartment viewings is simple, while international students can navigate platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate amenities, and assess distance to public transport.
When I commenced my quest for a place to reside, my priority was to find a room located in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 constituting the central area. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can become pricey, with daily inter-zonal fares hitting as high as £5.25. To cut costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. However, student Oyster cards provide reduced fares, making commuting more manageable. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach outer zones, though ticket prices vary depending on the route and service provider.
Residing in Central London entails a steeper cost, but I was lucky enough to share accommodation with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, as I was eager to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was also essential for me. Having supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op in the vicinity made running daily errands hassle-free. For more economical choices, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland served as excellent alternatives. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies proved particularly advantageous during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal area in London can be daunting, given the city’s myriad communities. Many international students tend to gravitate towards neighborhoods that reflect their cultural heritage. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese dining, retail, and cultural celebrations. These neighborhoods exemplify the cultural wealth that London presents.
Ultimately, the finest place to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, student-centric areas, or central locales, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its myriad neighborhoods, and relish the dynamic experience of living in one of the world’s most exhilarating cities.
By Guest Blogger
Categorized under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s