Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although that might seem like a brief period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some insightful perspectives on life in this lively city. London boasts not only a wealth of culture and history but also provides a broad range of living arrangements and various communities. Whether you are a student or a working professional, there is something available for everyone.
For students, the array of housing choices is extensive. From student residences to private accommodations, you can discover everything from ensuite rooms and studio apartments to shared flats and house shares. Students based in the UK can conveniently set up in-person viewings, while those from abroad can browse listings online through websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These platforms offer comprehensive information regarding amenities, costs, and nearby public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near significant attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transport network—made up of the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, sometimes reaching £5.25 per day. To cut costs, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards help make commuting less expensive. In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, with fares varying based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a steeper price. Luckily, I managed to lessen the rent by sharing a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. We chose intercollegiate student accommodation, giving us the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and cultivate a diverse social network—something that may be more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified daily errands. For budget-conscious choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Having critical stores nearby proves especially advantageous during hectic periods like exam time.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be both challenging and rewarding. The city’s multicultural communities contribute to its appeal and offer a sense of comfort for international students. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable 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. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center for Chinese food, shops, and festivals. These neighborhoods create a sense of home away from home.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, student-friendly accommodations, or central locales with easy access to public transport, London has much to offer. Embrace the diversity, explore your options, and maximize your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s