Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that doesn’t seem particularly lengthy, it has provided ample opportunity to gain insights into life in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and diversity, and presents a plethora of housing choices for students. Whether you’re in search of student accommodations or private rentals, options abound to cater to every taste—ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses are all on offer. For local students, arranging viewings is rather simple, whereas international students can utilize sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, review amenities, and evaluate transport connections.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near significant landmarks, social hubs, and most crucially, the campus of Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transportation network—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—is extensive and efficient, facilitating ease of movement. However, traveling between zones can add up, with daily inter-zonal fares peaking at £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards have made commuting more budget-friendly. In addition to the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend to outer zones, with fares dependent on distance and operator.
Living in Central London does entail steeper costs, but I was fortunate to share a room with a university friend, which helped us lower our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing because I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds in a similar age bracket—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another significant consideration for me. Major supermarket brands such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students. Being near essential stores and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times such as exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s remarkable cultural mix is represented through its numerous ethnic communities, each offering a distinct ambiance. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its thriving South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas provide an atmosphere of familiarity and community, particularly for international students.
In the end, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to cultural districts, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London offers a little bit of everything. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its various neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s