Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a short while ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that might not seem extensive, it has provided me with ample opportunities to gain insight into life within this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its vast array of housing options but also for the varied communities that reside here. For students, there is an abundance of housing solutions—ranging from student dorms to private rentals, including choices like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studios, and house shares.
For students based in the UK, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly simple. Conversely, international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate housing choices online. These sites offer comprehensive information regarding amenities, pricing, and access to public transport—making the process easier for those abroad.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social spots, and most crucially, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most metropolitan. Thankfully, the city possesses a fantastic public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing around quite feasible. However, daily travel between zones can cost as much as £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to save on expenses. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards greatly alleviate commuting costs.
Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into the outer zones, providing broader connectivity. Fares differ depending on the distance and service provider, so it’s advisable to verify in advance.
Residing in Central London does carry a high cost, but I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a university friend. We opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, which permitted us to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores also played a significant role in deciding where to live. Major retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are easily accessible. Being near supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam season.
Choosing the right neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s extensive and diverse landscape. London’s multiculturalism is one of its greatest assets, and many international students tend to flock to areas that resonate with their cultural roots. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a wealth of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and priorities. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, affordability, or closeness to your university, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the city’s neighborhoods, and maximize your time in this remarkable place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s