Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and while that period may not appear lengthy, it has provided ample opportunity for me to discover a great deal about residing in this lively city. London is a colorful and multifaceted environment, not just regarding its populace and culture but also in the range of housing alternatives available to students. Whether you seek student accommodations or private leases, there’s an option for every taste—from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared apartments and house shares.
For students, the process of securing housing is fairly simple. Domestic students can arrange to view properties in person, whereas international students gain from platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which enable you to browse listings online, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
When I embarked on 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 crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is split into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s vast public transport system—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates getting around. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily inter-zonal fares reaching as much as £5.25. To save funds, I frequently walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenses. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground, providing additional transport options, although fares differ based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London entails a higher cost, but I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which reduced rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Location relative to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly helpful during busy periods such as exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Many international students tend to settle in areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean roots and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a lively center for Chinese food, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods create a sense of comfort and community for students away from home.
Ultimately, the most suitable location to reside in London hinges on your individual circumstances and desires. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, wish to be near campus, or are in search of economical housing, London has an array of options to offer. Embrace the city’s diversity, traverse its numerous neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s