Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and while that may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient to acquire some insightful perspectives on living in this lively city. London is abundant in culture and history, while also providing a diverse range of housing options and inclusive communities. No matter if you are a student or a professional, there’s an array of choices when it comes to finding a residence.
For students specifically, there are numerous housing alternatives—from student residences to private rentals. The options range from ensuite to shared bathrooms, private rooms to shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite manageable. International students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to peruse listings, evaluate amenities, and confirm proximity to public transport—all while still abroad.
When I commenced my accommodation search, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and most importantly, Imperial College London. London is organized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transportation system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, daily travel between zones can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to conserve funds. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate travel costs. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services provide extended routes, although ticket prices can vary based on the route and provider.
Residing in Central London comes with a premium cost, but I managed to lower expenses by sharing a room with a fellow university student. We opted for intercollegiate student housing, allowing us to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something trickier to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another pivotal factor for me. Prominent supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland assist in managing food costs. Being near essential shops, especially during exam periods, greatly simplifies life.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vast cultural diversity. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that resonate with their cultural origins. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocers, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a slice of Chinese culture through its restaurants, shops, and festivals. These neighbourhoods provide a sense of familiarity and community that can be comforting when away from home.
In the end, the perfect place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighbourhoods, student communities, or central areas, London boasts an abundance of options. Embrace the diversity, delve into the city’s distinctive enclaves, and maximize your experience in this vibrant and exhilarating locale.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s