Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not seem very long, it has been sufficient for me to gain significant insights into residing in this vibrant city. London is not just abundant in culture and history; it also presents an astonishing range of housing options and lively communities. Whether you are a student or a professional, there is something available for everyone—from ensuite and shared rooms to studio apartments and house shares. For local students, scheduling a viewing is fairly simple, while international students can browse listings and amenities online through platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which also offer details on nearby transport connections.
When I was on the hunt for a place to stay, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, lively social spots, and most importantly, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—which facilitates easy navigation. However, travel expenses can accumulate swiftly, particularly when traversing zones, with daily inter-zonal travel costing as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently chose to walk short distances instead of using public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts and Oyster card options significantly alleviate commuting expenses. In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend to outer zones, with fares differing based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does carry a steeper cost, but I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which enabled us to lower our rent. We decided to live in intercollegiate student housing, which provided us the chance to connect with other students from various backgrounds and age groups—something that often proves elusive in private rentals.
Convenience was another crucial aspect of my choice. Proximity to grocery stores was essential, especially during hectic exam periods. Popular supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide great value. Having essential stores and pharmacies nearby simplified daily errands and saved time.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s extensive and varied landscape. One of London’s finest attributes is its multiculturalism, evident in its numerous ethnic communities. Many international students tend to flock to areas that evoke a sense of home. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian population and boasts a multitude of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean roots and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling centre of Chinese culture, featuring authentic cuisine, shops, and festivals. These neighbourhoods are merely a few instances of the cultural wealth London has in store.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and interests. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, closeness to your university, or accessibility to public transport, London offers a neighbourhood that suits your preferences. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its numerous living arrangements, and make the most of your stay in this remarkable location.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s