Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that may not seem like an extensive period, it’s been ample time to gain insights into living in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its rich history and cultural variety but also for the plethora of housing options available to students. Whether you’re seeking student accommodations or private rentals, there is something for everyone—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite straightforward. International students, however, can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse available listings online. These websites offer comprehensive details about amenities, local transport connections, and much more, significantly simplifying the search process from overseas.
During my hunt for a place to stay, I concentrated on Central London. I aspired to be near the city’s main attractions, social scenes, and, crucially, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London boasts an extensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—which facilitates easy commuting, although travel across zones can accumulate expenses. A daily inter-zonal fare can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to walk shorter distances to conserve funds. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards considerably alleviate commuting costs. For longer excursions, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend past the Underground system, although fares differ based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London certainly comes with a financial premium. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which helped reduce rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and foster a community with peers of the same age—something that can be more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
Close proximity to grocery stores was another essential factor for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely available, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide economical alternatives. Being near vital shopping areas and pharmacies is especially beneficial during hectic periods like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city is a rich tapestry of ethnic communities, each providing a distinct cultural experience. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural identities. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community and is famous for its Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean roots and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively hub of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of the many varied neighbourhoods that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the cultural richness of a specific community or the ease of living close to campus, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its numerous neighbourhoods, and make the most of your experience in this exceptional place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s