Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Although I have only been residing in London for nine months, this relatively short period has allowed me to absorb a great deal about life in this vibrant metropolis. London boasts a rich tapestry of culture and diversity, providing an array of housing options for students. Whether you’re seeking student accommodations or private rentals, you will find something that meets your needs—options include ensuite and shared baths, private or communal rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For students living at home, arranging apartment viewings is quite easy, while international students can browse listings online using sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These platforms offer comprehensive information on amenities and their proximity to public transportation, simplifying the search considerably.
During my own search for a place to reside, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to be near Imperial College as well as some of the city’s main attractions and social venues. London is organized into six transport zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most centrally located. The city’s transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs climbing to £5.25. To save on expenses, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. That said, using Oyster cards notably decreases travel costs for students. In addition to the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach further zones, enhancing connectivity, though ticket prices vary based on the operator and distance traveled.
Living in Central London can carry a high price tag, but I was lucky to have a friend attending the same university. We made the choice to share a room, which allowed us to reduce our rental expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student housing because I wished to meet individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be harder to come by in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task, but London’s rich cultural diversity guarantees something for everyone. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that reflect their heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese culture through its eateries, shops, and festivals. These neighbourhoods represent just a fraction of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or closeness to your institution, London caters to all. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its neighbourhoods, and relish everything this remarkable place has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s