Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided me with significant insights into residing in this lively city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also presents a wide range of housing options and energetic communities that render it a distinctive place to call home—particularly for students.
When it comes to securing housing, students have a plethora of options. Whether you’re in search of student accommodation or private rentals, there are numerous possibilities available—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange for in-person viewings, while international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate amenities, and examine transport connections.
During my personal quest, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London to remain close to the main attractions, social hotspots, and, most critically, Imperial College’s campus. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central areas. The city’s remarkable public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates commuting among zones. However, travel between zones can accumulate costs, reaching as much as £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than take public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenses. For farther journeys, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, although fares vary based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London comes with a heftier cost. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a fellow university student, which eased the rental burden. I chose intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that can be more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another vital consideration in my selection process. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students aiming to keep expenses down. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly useful during hectic exam seasons when time is of the essence.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting, but London’s multicultural communities provide a reassuring sense of familiarity for many international students. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian demographic and features Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene, while Chinatown in the West End offers a rich selection of Chinese dining, retail, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are just a few illustrations of the city’s diverse cultural enclaves.
In the end, the ideal residence in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to the hustle of Central London or the cultural depth of its outer boroughs, the city has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the neighborhoods, and maximize your experience in this magnificent city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s