Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some significant perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also presents a wide range of living arrangements and lively communities. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, there’s something for everyone here.
When it comes to housing, students have an abundance of options. From student accommodations to private rentals, choices range from ensuite to shared bathrooms, private to shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For students residing in the UK, viewing properties in person is quite convenient. However, international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my own quest for housing, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an extensive public transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—that makes traveling between zones easy. Nevertheless, daily trips between zones can cost as much as £5.25, so I often opted to walk shorter distances to economize. That said, the discounts for students on Oyster cards significantly contribute to lowering commuting expenses. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zones, with fares varying based on distance and service provider.
Living in Central London certainly comes with a heftier price tag. Thankfully, I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a friend who was also studying at university. We settled for intercollegiate student accommodation, which provided the added advantage of interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widespread, while economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent savings. Being close to essential shops, particularly during exam periods, made daily errands significantly easier and less time-consuming.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be overwhelming, given the city’s extensive and varied landscape. London’s multicultural communities are a pivotal aspect of its essence. Many international students gravitate towards areas that mirror their cultural identities. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, brimming with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a wealth of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods offer newcomers a sense of familiarity and belonging.
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your personal tastes and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, student hotspots, or more tranquil residential areas, London has something to provide. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous neighbourhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s