Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months prior, I relocated to London to embark on my postgraduate education, and while that might not seem like a lengthy period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not just abundant in culture and history but also provides a myriad of housing options and lively communities that create a distinctive living experience—particularly for students.
In terms of accommodation, students in London have a wealth of choices. Whether you’re seeking student-specific housing or private rentals, numerous options accommodate various preferences and budgets. Options include ensuite rooms, private studios, shared flats, or house shares. For domestic students, scheduling in-person viewings is quite simple. Conversely, international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
During my search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The vast public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement. However, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly, particularly when traversing zones. A daily inter-zonal commute might cost up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently choose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the tube or bus. Nonetheless, student discounts and Oyster card options do assist in making commuting more budget-friendly.
London Overground and National Rail services also extend beyond the Underground, covering regions outside of central London. The fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structures of the train operators.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages, but it also entails higher living expenses. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, significantly lowering our rent. We opted to live in intercollegiate student housing, which allowed us to connect with other students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s less common in private rentals.
Another important consideration for me was living in proximity to essential amenities. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily errands simpler. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Having these shops close by proved particularly useful during exam times when my schedule was tight.
Picking the right area in London can be daunting, given the city’s vast and varied landscape. London’s multicultural neighborhoods are a core aspect of its character. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that reflect their cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian community, teeming with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a rich assortment of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s charm.
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and interests. Whether you seek convenience, community, or cultural ties, London has much to offer. Embrace the diversity, explore the neighborhoods, and fully enjoy your time in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s