Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be a lengthy period, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London boasts an impressive cultural heritage and history while providing a broad range of housing options and diverse communities. Whether you are a local resident or an international student, numerous accommodation selections are accessible—from ensuite and shared rooms to studio apartments and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, while international students can investigate choices online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive information regarding amenities and transportation links, streamlining the search process significantly.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London to remain near major landmarks, social venues, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The public transport system—comprising the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy commuting across the zones. Nevertheless, daily inter-zonal travel may cost as much as £5.25, prompting me to frequently walk short distances to economize. The Oyster card has been instrumental in minimizing my travel expenses for university. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail operate beyond the Underground network, covering outer zones with varying fare structures depending on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London does carry a steeper price, but I was lucky to share accommodation with a friend, which helped reduce costs. I selected intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Closeness to grocery stores was another significant factor in my housing choice. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies has proven particularly useful during hectic exam times.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vastness and diversity. London’s ethnic communities are an integral part of its character, providing a sense of familiarity for numerous international students. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music environment. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas provide a comforting taste of home for many while enhancing the city’s multicultural appeal.
In the end, the ideal place to live in London is contingent upon your individual requirements and preferences. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighborhoods or are in pursuit of convenience and affordability, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its distinctive neighborhoods, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s