Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London; while that may not seem extensive, it has provided me with significant insights into the life within this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history, and it presents a plethora of housing choices and lively communities, making it a thrilling place to reside—particularly for students.
Regarding accommodation, students have an abundance of choices. Whether you’re seeking student housing or private rentals, there are countless options to consider, such as ensuite rooms, studios, shared apartments, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange for in-person viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my personal search, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates commuting between zones effectively. However, inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day, so I often preferred walking shorter distances to economize. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards contribute to significantly reducing travel costs. For longer commutes, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, although fares can differ based on distance and operator.
Living in Central London does entail higher costs, but I managed to lower expenses by sharing a room with a fellow university friend. We opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, which not only allowed us to save on rent but also connected us with other students from varied backgrounds—something that is less prevalent in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundantly available, while affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Having essential shops in proximity is particularly beneficial during hectic times such as examinations.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be daunting, but the multicultural essence of London facilitates finding a place that resonates as home. Many international students are drawn to areas reflective of their cultural roots. For example, Southall in West London is well-known for its vibrant South Asian community, full of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich variety of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods serve as a mere glimpse of the city’s cultural tapestry.
Ultimately, the best locale to reside in London hinges on your unique requirements and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the convenience of central living, the affordability of outer zones, or the cultural essence of specific communities, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the variety, explore your possibilities, and take full advantage of all that this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s