Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that may not seem like an extensive period, it has provided me with ample opportunity to gain insight into life within this vibrant city. London is recognized not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for the rich and varied communities that reside here. For students, housing options abound—from student accommodations to private leases—featuring everything from ensuite and shared facilities to studio apartments and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up in-person viewings, while international students have the advantage of exploring choices online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which include information on amenities and transport connections.
During my search for a living space, my priority was securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near major sights, social hubs, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transportation system—comprising the Underground, buses, and trains—that facilitates easy travel. However, commuting between zones can accumulate costs; a daily inter-zonal commute could reach up to £5.25. To save on expenses, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards can notably lower commuting expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving more remote zones, although fares vary based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London entails a higher rental cost. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a fellow university friend, which significantly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—an aspect often more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery stores was also an important consideration for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam season when every minute counts.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can prove difficult, given the city’s extraordinary cultural richness. Many international students search for areas that evoke the comfort of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and apparel 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 presents an extensive selection of Chinese cuisine, stores, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent just a few of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the optimal place to call home in London is contingent on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, closeness to campus, or affordable rents, London has something to offer for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighborhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable location.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s