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 sound like a long duration, it has granted me the opportunity to acquire valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not merely abundant in culture and history; it also provides a wide range of housing alternatives and lively communities, making it a distinctive location to reside—particularly for students.
Regarding accommodation, students have an abundance of options. Whether you are searching for student-centered housing or private rentals, there are numerous choices available, such as ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares. For local students, arranging a viewing is relatively simple. For those coming from abroad, platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom facilitate the exploration of listings online, allowing you to view amenities and assess proximity to public transport.
In my personal quest, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and most significantly, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The city boasts an extensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—which makes commuting quite manageable. However, inter-zone travel can become costly, with daily fares reaching up to £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nevertheless, the Oyster card system has made commuting more budget-friendly for students. Additionally, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones with the city center. Fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London inevitably incurs a higher cost. Luckily, I was able to divide a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rental expenses. I decided to opt for intercollegiate student accommodation as I desired to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s more challenging to achieve in private housing.
Location to essential shops was also a significant aspect of my decision-making. Being close to supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op—or budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland—simplifies everyday tasks, particularly during hectic exam seasons.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s immense scale and diversity. London’s multicultural communities represent one of its key strengths, providing a sense of familiarity for international students. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods offer a distinctive mix of cultural experiences and a feeling of home away from home.
Ultimately, the optimal location to dwell in London hinges on your individual inclinations and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, student hubs, or central areas, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your choices, and relish everything this remarkable city presents.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s