Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I reached the milestone of nine months in London. Although this may not appear to be a significant duration, it has been sufficient for me to acquire valuable perspectives on living in this vibrant metropolis. London boasts a deep cultural heritage and a wealth of history, along with a plethora of housing choices and lively communities. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city presents a range of accommodation types—from ensuite and shared spaces to studio flats and house shares. For home students, scheduling a property viewing is quite simple, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, check available amenities, and assess their distance to public transportation.
When I started my housing search, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to be near major landmarks, social hubs, and, most crucially, Imperial College London. The city is organized into six transport zones, with zones 1 and 2 constituting the central area. London’s public transportation network—consisting of the Underground, buses, and trains—is vast and effective, facilitating travel between zones. However, daily travel between zones can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to conserve funds. Utilizing an Oyster card significantly lowers commuting expenses, particularly for students. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground, linking the outer zones to the city center. The fare on these services varies based on distance and the particular train operator.
Residing in Central London inevitably comes with a greater expense, but I managed to lower my rent by sharing a room with a friend who was also attending Imperial. We opted for intercollegiate student housing, which enabled us to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is easier to attain compared to private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another critical element for me. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland help keep food expenses in check. Being near essential stores and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood in London can prove to be difficult due to the city’s expansive and varied landscape. London’s multicultural communities enhance its allure and furnish a sense of belonging for international students. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London showcases a vibrant Afro-Caribbean populace and an energetic music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End acts as a bustling epicenter of Chinese culture, cuisine, and events. These neighborhoods provide a comforting taste of home for numerous students.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural hubs or seeking convenience and affordability, London has something to offer for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its various neighborhoods, and relish the unique opportunity of living in one of the world’s most exhilarating cities.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s