Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that may appear to be a short period, it has provided me with ample opportunities to gain insights about life in this vibrant city. London is renowned for not only its extensive range of housing alternatives but also for its remarkably diverse communities. Whether you are a local resident or an international scholar, there is an abundance of accommodation options available—ensuite rooms, private studios, shared apartments, and house shares can all be easily found. While domestic students can promptly arrange in-person viewings, international students can navigate listings and virtual tours through websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which also supply details about amenities and transportation links.
When I initiated my hunt for accommodation, my focus was on Central London. My aim was to remain in close proximity to the city’s major attractions, social hubs, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College London. London is structured into six concentric transportation zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transportation system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel within the area. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can become expensive, with daily inter-zonal fares soaring up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. That being said, student discounts on Oyster cards contribute to making commuting more cost-effective. Beyond the Tube, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach the outer zones, although fares vary based on the route and train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with a significant expense, but I was lucky to be attending university alongside a friend. We chose to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with fellow students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can often be more elusive in private rentals.
The proximity to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Prominent supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for saving money. Living near essential retailers and pharmacies proved particularly convenient during exam times when my schedule was tight.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s multicultural fabric is apparent in its numerous ethnic enclaves, each providing a distinct cultural experience. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its vibrant South Asian community, filled with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean cultural heritage and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a lively hub for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods offer a reassuring sense of familiarity for many international students.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural variety, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s rich array of housing choices, delve into its lively communities, and maximize your time in this remarkable metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s