Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not seem like an extended period, I’ve gained considerable knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also provides a diverse range of housing options and lively communities that make it an exhilarating place to call home—particularly for students.
When it comes to housing, students have an abundance of choices. From student residences to private rentals, there are accommodations to meet every taste and budget. Options include ensuite rooms, studio apartments, shared flats, or even house shares. For local students, scheduling viewings is fairly uncomplicated. International students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover available properties online, evaluate amenities, and consider their proximity to public transport.
In my personal search, I aimed to secure accommodation in Central London to remain close to Imperial College, along with the city’s main attractions and vibrant social scenes. London is organized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—that simplifies commuting. However, daily travel between zones can incur costs up to £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to save on expenses. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards greatly diminish commuting costs. The London Overground and National Rail services also link areas outside the Underground’s coverage, although fares may vary based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does carry a steeper cost. Fortunately, I managed to share a room with a friend, which helped lower our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation in hopes of connecting with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during busy times such as exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be difficult, but London’s multicultural communities offer something for everyone. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is known for its thriving South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese food, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods exemplify just a few of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted to cultural diversity, closeness to university, or economical living, London has something to offer. Embrace the city’s extensive variety of housing options, delve into its diverse communities, and appreciate all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s