Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient to gather some invaluable perspectives on life in this vibrant metropolis. London is not only abundant in culture and heritage but also provides a multitude of housing options and lively communities that render it a thrilling place to reside—particularly for students.
When it pertains to lodging, students are truly overwhelmed with choices. Ranging from student accommodations to private leases, the city features a variety of options including ensuite rooms and studio apartments, as well as shared flats and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person tours, while international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate online alternatives. These sites offer comprehensive details on facilities, pricing, and proximity to public transport, simplifying the process for those relocating from overseas.
In my own quest for housing, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social hubs, and most crucially, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s expansive public transportation network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates commuting rather effortlessly. However, traveling between zones can incur high costs, with daily inter-zonal fares reaching as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly diminish commuting expenses.
The London Overground and National Rail services also extend beyond the Underground, encompassing outer zones. Fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the operator. While residing in Central London can be pricey, I succeeded in minimizing costs by sharing a room with a friend. We chose intercollegiate student accommodation, which not only assisted us in saving on rent but also provided the chance to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds—an opportunity that is harder to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to essential stores was another significant aspect of my housing choice. Being near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made handling daily chores considerably more convenient. Cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely accessible. Having these stores in close proximity proved particularly advantageous during hectic exam seasons when time is limited.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s expansive and varied landscape. The multicultural communities of London are a distinguishing characteristic of its identity. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that mirror their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, offering a variety of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and thriving music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a lively center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods provide a welcoming sense of familiarity and community for newcomers.
Ultimately, the ideal residence in London hinges on your specific needs and lifestyle inclinations. Whether you are attracted to cultural hubs, in search of affordable housing, or wish to be near your university, London accommodates everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its numerous neighborhoods, and fully experience what this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s