Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I wrapped up nine months of residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extended period, it has allowed me to gather a wealth of knowledge about living in this bustling metropolis. London is renowned not only for its extensive range of housing choices but also for its lively and multicultural communities. Whether you’re a local resident or an international student, there are numerous living arrangements to consider—from ensuite rooms and studios to shared apartments and independent rentals. Home students can easily schedule in-person viewings, while international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to peruse listings, assess amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, I targeted Central London. I aimed to stay near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central locations. London’s superb public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, travelling between zones daily may cost as much as £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to save some cash. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenses. For longer trips, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, but ticket prices can vary depending on distance and train provider.
Residing in Central London comes with a hefty price tag, but I was fortunate enough to cohabit with a friend, which reduced our rental costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was a crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students. Living near essential retail stores and pharmacies proved particularly beneficial during exam seasons when time was at a premium.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vibrant cultural mosaic. Many international students look for areas that mirror the culture of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is well-known for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively hub of Chinese gastronomy, shops, and cultural events. These examples barely scratch the surface of the numerous vibrant, culturally diverse communities throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal spot to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and way of life. Whether you’re attracted to cultural neighbourhoods, student accommodations, or central locales, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the variety, investigate your options, and relish all that this amazing city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s