Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months ago, I relocated to London—and although that may not appear to be an extensive period, it’s been ample time to discover a significant amount about residing in this vibrant city. London serves not just as a center of cultural variety but also presents a multitude of housing choices to accommodate various needs and financial plans. Whether you are a student or a working individual, options span from student accommodations and private leases to ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares.
For students, securing housing is comparatively simple. Students based in the UK can easily schedule in-person viewings, while those from abroad can take advantage of platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, allowing for virtual tours and thorough listings of amenities and transport links.
When I commenced my housing search, my focus was on Central London to remain near Imperial College, social hubs, and famous landmarks. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s vast public transportation network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly; daily inter-zonal travel might cost about £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk instead of taking public transport for shorter distances. Nonetheless, student Oyster cards significantly lower commuting expenses. In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, with fares varying by distance and operator.
Residing in Central London carries a steep price, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which helped lessen our rent. We chose intercollegiate student housing, which provided us the chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds—a feature that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial element in my housing choice. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while budget-conscious choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland keep food costs manageable. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic exam periods when every moment is valuable.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vastness and diversity. Many international students are attracted to areas that mirror their cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its lively South Asian community, filled with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End boasts a rich selection of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods offer a sense of comfort and community for newcomers.
Ultimately, the ideal living situation in London is contingent upon your personal tastes and lifestyle. Whether you are drawn to cultural pockets or contemporary student housing, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, venture through its numerous neighborhoods, and relish the unique experience of living in one of the globe’s most exhilarating capitals.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s