Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while it may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has certainly provided ample opportunity to discover much about residing in this vibrant city. London is renowned not just for its wide range of housing possibilities but also for the lively and varied communities that reside here. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the array of housing options is plentiful—from ensuite and shared rooms to studio apartments and house shares.
Students, in particular, have numerous choices available. Domestic students can conveniently arrange for in-person viewings, while international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings remotely. These websites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, pricing, and public transport accessibility, facilitating more informed decisions from overseas.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My priority was proximity to the city’s major attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. Thanks to the city’s exceptional public transport options—including the Underground, buses, and trains—navigating the area is relatively straightforward. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can accumulate costs, with daily fares rising to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than take public transport. That said, the availability of discounted Oyster card options has made commuting to university more budget-friendly.
In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, enhancing connectivity. Ticket prices on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of the operators.
Residing in Central London entails a higher cost, but I was lucky to have a friend studying with me. We chose to share a room, which significantly decreased our rental expenses. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
The proximity to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Living near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op is incredibly convenient. For more economical options, there are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies proves especially advantageous during hectic periods like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s rich cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that mirror their own cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community and features everything from Indian eateries to traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling centre for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These are just a sampling of the city’s numerous vibrant, culturally diverse neighbourhoods.
Ultimately, the most suitable living location in London hinges on your individual tastes and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, the conveniences of central areas, or the affordability found in outer regions, London offers options for everyone. Embrace the diversity, investigate your choices, and relish all that this remarkable city has to provide.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s