Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that duration might not appear extensive, it has provided me with significant perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history, alongside offering a vast array of housing choices and lively communities. Whether you are a local resident or an international student, securing a place to live is facilitated by the plethora of options—ranging from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio flats and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule in-person viewings, while those from abroad can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings, evaluate amenities, and consider proximity to public transport—all while overseas.
As I initiated my accommodation search, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My desire was to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive transport network—which includes the Underground, buses, and rail services—makes navigating it relatively straightforward. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day, so I frequently chose to walk shorter journeys to economize. Luckily, student discounts and Oyster card options greatly lessen commuting expenses. For longer travels, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground, serving outer zones with differing fare structures based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London does involve a higher expense, but I succeeded in reducing costs by sharing a room with a friend. This arrangement not only made rent more manageable but also fostered a sense of companionship. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery stores was another vital consideration in my choice. Having supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op in the vicinity made daily chores easier. For more economical selections, shops like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland proved beneficial—especially during exam times when time is scarce, and convenience is essential.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror the culture of their homelands. For instance, Southall in West London is known for its significant South Asian population and is filled with Indian restaurants, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a rich mix of Chinese food, stores, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are merely a few representations of the city’s multicultural tapestry.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual tastes, lifestyle, and financial capabilities. Whether you find yourself attracted to the cultural energy of a particular community or the practicality of being near the campus, London presents something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, investigate your choices, and make the most of what this remarkable city has to provide.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s