Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that might not appear to be an extensive period, it has certainly been sufficient to acquire some meaningful perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history, as well as a diverse range of housing choices and lively communities that create a distinctive settling-in experience—particularly for students.
When it comes to accommodation, students have an abundance of options. Whether you’re seeking university-managed student housing or private rentals, there is something available for every taste and financial plan. Choices include ensuite rooms, studio apartments, shared flats, and house shares. For local students, scheduling viewings is generally simple. For international students, websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom facilitate the exploration of listings online, comparison of amenities, and assessment of closeness to public transport.
In my own quest, I concentrated on discovering a room in Central London. My goal was to be near the city’s main attractions, social gathering spots, and most importantly, Imperial College London. London’s layout consists of six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—is vast and efficient, allowing easy commuting across zones. However, traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I often opted to walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card system has been invaluable in cutting down travel expenses for students. Moreover, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube network, encompassing outer zones with varying fare structures based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London does come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, I was able to share a room with a fellow university friend, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with individuals from assorted backgrounds and age groups—an opportunity that tends to be more challenging in private rentals.
Proximity to essential shops was another significant consideration for me. Being near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified daily tasks. For more economical options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Having these shops nearby was particularly beneficial during hectic exam periods when time was at a premium.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, especially given the city’s remarkable cultural diversity. Many international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian community, providing a variety of Indian cuisine and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods offer a sense of comfort and community that can be reassuring when far from home.
Ultimately, the best location to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and interests. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, prefer to be near your university, or seek budget-conscious options, London presents something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, discover the neighborhoods, and take full advantage of what this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s