Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might not seem lengthy, this period has provided me valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant metropolis. London is celebrated not only for its extensive range of housing alternatives but also for its varied and lively communities. Students have numerous options for accommodation—spanning from student housing to private leases, featuring choices like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private or communal rooms, studio apartments, and shared homes.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is generally uncomplicated. For those from abroad, websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom simplify the process of viewing online listings, assessing amenities, and verifying proximity to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to be near key attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. The city is divided into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The public transportation system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, daily travel between zones can reach prices of up to £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to economize. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards assist in making transport costs more manageable. For longer commutes, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s coverage, although ticket prices depend on the route and operator.
Residing in Central London typically comes at a premium, but I was lucky to be studying alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room. This significantly reduced our rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student housing in hopes of connecting with classmates of various backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be tougher to achieve in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another critical element for me. Major supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly handy, particularly during hectic times like examinations.
Picking the right neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s rich cultural tapestry is mirrored in its numerous ethnic districts, which provide a sense of comfort for international students. For instance, Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, with an array of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and spirited music culture. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End serves as a lively center for Chinese food, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the many bustling communities throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual tastes and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighborhoods, prefer to be near your campus, or are searching for budget-friendly housing, London presents options for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its abundant living choices, and relish the distinctive experience of making London your home.
By Guest Blogger
Categorized under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s