Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I finished nine months of residing in London. While that duration might not appear significant, it has certainly been sufficient to acquire extensive knowledge about life in this vibrant city. London is not only steeped in history and culture but also presents a broad spectrum of housing options and lively communities. Regardless of whether you are a local or an international student, there’s an abundance of housing alternatives—spanning from ensuite rooms and studio apartments to shared flats and individual rentals. For home students, scheduling a viewing is fairly simple, while international students can discover listings and virtual tours via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites also furnish valuable details regarding amenities and transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. My aim was to be near the city’s major attractions, social hubs, and critically, Imperial College London. London is organized into six travel zones, with the first two zones considered the most central. The city’s superb public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, daily inter-zonal travel can be as much as £5.25, which often led me to choose walking shorter distances to save costs. That being said, student discounts and Oyster card options significantly lessen travel expenditures. The London Overground and National Rail services also reach beyond the Underground network, providing wider coverage throughout the city and beyond, although fares vary based on the route and provider.
Residing in Central London does entail greater expenses, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which alleviated rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation because I aimed to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Prominent supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland help maintain affordable food expenses. Living near essential stores and pharmacies proves especially beneficial during busy times such as exam season.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students tend to flock towards areas that mirror their cultural roots. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, offering Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and spirited music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are just a few illustrations of the numerous lively communities that contribute to London’s multicultural fabric.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, student-friendly accommodations, or closeness to campus, London has a little something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its various neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s