Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extended period, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire significant perspectives on life in this vibrant metropolis. London is renowned not only for its expansive range of housing alternatives but also for its lively and diverse neighborhoods. Whether you are a resident or an international student, you’ll find a wealth of accommodation options—from ensuite and shared rooms to studio apartments and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, assess amenities, and determine their distance from public transport.
During my search for living arrangements, my attention was on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s core 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 excellent public transportation system—consisting of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy commuting between zones. However, daily travel across zones can run up to £5.25, prompting me to opt for walking shorter distances to save on expenses. Fortunately, student Oyster cards significantly lessen commuting costs. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, offering wider coverage, although fares fluctuate based on distance and train service.
Residing in Central London comes with its financial challenges, but I was lucky to attend university alongside a friend. We chose to share a room to alleviate rental expenses. I selected intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—an aspect that can be tougher to find in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while economical brands such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living near vital stores and pharmacies proved especially beneficial during hectic exam phases when time is limited.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London is a subjective choice and can be quite complex. The city’s rich cultural tapestry is mirrored in its various ethnic enclaves. For example, Southall in West London is distinguished by its substantial South Asian community and is home to numerous Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean roots and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the numerous lively communities that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your lifestyle, tastes, and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighborhoods, in search of convenience, or seeking a social student atmosphere, London provides a multitude of options. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its various housing choices, and revel in everything this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s