Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not appear to be a substantial duration, it has provided ample time to gain insight into life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not just for its rich historical background and cultural attractions but also for its extensive range of housing choices and varied communities. Whether you are a local or an international student, there is an abundance of accommodation options—ranging from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares.
For students, securing accommodation is generally uncomplicated. Domestic students can participate in on-site viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, pricing, and proximity to public transport, facilitating informed choices from overseas.
As I embarked on my own search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain near key attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s vast public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—ensures easy commuting between zones. However, traveling between zones daily can cost as much as £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card has been incredibly beneficial in lowering travel expenses for students, and services like the London Overground and National Rail broaden access to areas outside of the Underground network.
Living in Central London entails a higher expense, yet I was fortunate to attend university alongside a friend. We opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to achieve in private housing.
Closeness to essential stores also played a crucial role in my choice. Being near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland, made handling daily tasks much simpler—particularly during exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be difficult due to the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students seek areas that reflect the culture and community of their native countries. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its lively South Asian community, featuring everything from Indian eateries to traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods offer newcomers a sense of familiarity and belonging.
In conclusion, the optimal place to reside in London is contingent on your personal requirements and tastes. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore your choices, and relish everything this remarkable place has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s