Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my arrival in London, and although that might not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gained substantial insights into residing in this vibrant city. London brims with culture and history while providing a plethora of housing choices and lively communities. Whether you’re a domestic student or arriving from overseas, there’s something for everyone—from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio flats and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange face-to-face viewings, while international students can browse listings and amenities online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom.
During my hunt for living arrangements, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to remain near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, very importantly, the Imperial College campus. The city is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most centrally located. The superb public transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively straightforward commuting between zones. However, daily travel fares can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to save money. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards help lessen commuting expenses. In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail stretch to outer zones, though fares may vary based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a higher cost, but I managed to minimize expenses by sharing a room with a friend, which greatly decreased our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing because I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and ages—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during busy times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that resonate with their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music atmosphere. In the West End, Chinatown presents an energetic blend of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few examples of the city’s rich cultural fabric.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London provides a distinctive and fulfilling living experience. Embrace the diversity, explore the communities, and fully enjoy everything this amazing city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s