Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it might not seem like an extended period, it has been plenty of time to gain insights about life in this bustling city. London is recognized not just for its variety of housing options but also for its rich and lively communities. Students can find plenty of housing alternatives—ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, featuring everything from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio apartments and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can make use of websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, review amenities, and evaluate how close they are to public transportation.
During my search for housing, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s main attractions, social hubs, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. The city is separated into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 forming its central area. The city’s outstanding public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel between these zones. However, daily inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to save on costs. The Oyster card has been invaluable for minimizing commuting expenses. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing outer zones with fares that differ based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London comes at a premium. Luckily, I was at university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which greatly helped us lower our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation because I was eager to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that’s frequently more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Large supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent prices. Having essential stores close by is particularly convenient during exam season when time is scarce.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be an arduous task. The city’s multicultural character is evident in its numerous ethnic enclaves, each boasting its own distinct appeal. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London is well-known for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a lively collection of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few of the many diverse communities that constitute London.
In the end, the ideal living situation in London is contingent on your individual needs and interests. Whether you’re in search of cultural familiarity, convenience, or affordability, London has something to provide. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighborhoods, and relish everything this remarkable place has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s