Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Approximately nine months ago, I relocated to London to embark on my postgraduate journey, and although that might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has afforded me the opportunity to gather some significant perspectives on living in this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history, providing an extensive range of housing choices for students. Whether you seek student accommodations or private rentals, there’s an option to match every taste—ensuite and shared bathrooms, private or shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares are all attainable. For local students, scheduling viewings is fairly simple, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and determine closeness to public transportation.
During my quest for a living space, I directed my efforts towards Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hubs, and most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The comprehensive public transport system—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement. However, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily fares climbing to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transportation. Luckily, student discounts on Oyster cards considerably lessen commuting expenses. In addition to the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach areas beyond central London, with fares differing based on distance and operator.
Living in Central London entails higher costs, but I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a fellow university student. We chose intercollegiate student housing, which allowed us to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that’s often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Convenience was also essential for me. Being near grocery stores made everyday life significantly easier, especially during examination times. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-conscious options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present excellent value.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood can be daunting, especially in a city as multifaceted as London. The city’s multicultural communities play a crucial role in shaping its distinct character. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror their cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a rich selection of Chinese food, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighborhoods provide many students with a sense of belonging.
In the end, the optimal living arrangement in London hinges on your individual requirements and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural variety, closeness to campus, or affordability, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity of housing options, delve into the city’s cultural neighborhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s