Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months ago, I relocated to London to embark on my master’s studies, and while this may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient for me to gain important perspectives on living in this vibrant city. London is renowned not just for its famous sights and extensive history, but also for its varied communities and extensive housing choices. Whether you are a resident or a foreign student, securing a place to stay here can be both thrilling and daunting.
London provides an array of accommodation options designed specifically for students, including accommodations managed by universities and private rental offerings. You can opt for ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, or shared houses. For domestic students, organizing in-person viewings is fairly simple. Conversely, international students frequently depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore listings, compare features, and evaluate distance to public transport—all while being abroad.
As I commenced my search for housing, I prioritized Central London. I aimed to be near Imperial College, as well as the major attractions and vibrant social venues. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones one and two encompassing the central regions. The city’s extensive public transport infrastructure—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between zones. Nevertheless, daily travel across zones can reach as high as £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to save on expenses. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lessen travel costs. In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail link the city to outer zones, although fares can vary by route and operator.
Residing in Central London entails a greater expense, but I managed to lower costs by sharing a room with a fellow Imperial student. We decided on intercollegiate student housing, which allowed us to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and cultivate a varied social network—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Closeness to essential shops was another crucial aspect of my housing choice. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified my daily tasks. For more economical options, stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. The availability of these amenities proved particularly advantageous during hectic exam periods when my time was constrained.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be quite difficult, especially given the city’s cultural diversity. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End stands as a hub for Chinese dining, retail, and cultural events. These neighborhoods not only provide a sense of familiarity but also enhance the overall London experience.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your personal requirements and tastes. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, convenience, or affordability, London has something for everyone. Embrace the uniqueness, explore the city’s numerous neighborhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s