Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not appear as a lengthy duration, it has been ample time to gain extensive insights about life in this vibrant city. London is famed not only for its wide range of living arrangements but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Whether you’re a resident or an international student, there’s an abundance of housing options to choose from—including ensuite rooms, shared accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate amenities, and consider distance to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed for Central London. I wished to stay near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is organized into six concentric fare zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s impressive transport system—comprising the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates movement around the city. Nevertheless, daily travel between zones can accrue costs of up to £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to save some pounds. That being said, student discounts on Oyster cards have significantly lowered commuting expenses. Besides the Tube, additional services like the London Overground and National Rail connect to areas beyond central London, with fares differing based on distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London comes with a steep cost, but I was fortunate enough to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to decrease our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age demographics—something that is often harder to come by in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery stores was another critical consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are ubiquitous, whereas economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic periods like exam time.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vastness and diversity. The multicultural communities of London are integral to its character. Many international students tend to congregate in areas that echo their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a lively South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London showcases a robust Afro-Caribbean presence and a vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in central London presents a rich selection of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the city’s cultural hubs.
Ultimately, determining the best place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to the convenience of central locations or the cultural depth of outer boroughs, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity of housing choices, delve into the city’s varied communities, and fully enjoy your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s