Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be a significant duration, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also provides a multitude of housing selections tailored to various requirements and lifestyles. Whether you are a student or a working professional, you will encounter an array of options from ensuite rooms and studio apartments to shared flats and house shares. For home students, arranging in-person viewings is simple, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London to remain near major attractions, entertainment venues, and, most crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The extensive transport system of the city—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, daily inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to save expenses. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards help to make commuting more cost-effective. In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail link outer zones, although fares fluctuate based on the operator and distance covered.
Residing in Central London entails a steep cost, yet I was able to minimize expenses by sharing a room with a friend. We selected intercollegiate student accommodations, which not only allowed us to cut down on rent but also provided us with the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds—an opportunity that is more difficult to come by in private rentals.
Convenience was another essential aspect of my housing choice. Proximity to grocery stores such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op streamlined daily errands, particularly during hectic exam phases. For more budget-conscious alternatives, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s astonishing diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that resonate with their cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End presents a plethora of Chinese cuisine, stores, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods exemplify just a few of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, seeking convenience, or attempting to adhere to a budget, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous neighbourhoods, and relish all that this remarkable place has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s