Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months ago, I relocated to London to commence my postgraduate studies, and while it might not appear to be an extended period, it has provided ample opportunity to discover a great deal about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only teeming with culture and diversity but also presents a broad spectrum of housing options to accommodate various lifestyles and financial plans. Whether you are in search of student accommodation or private rentals, there’s something available for everyone—from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared apartments and house shares.
For students, securing accommodation is fairly simple. Students based in the UK can easily arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students enjoy the advantage of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which facilitate virtual tours and furnish detailed information regarding amenities and transport connections.
When I initiated my search, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London to remain near Imperial College, key attractions, and lively social spots. The city is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The extensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—makes commuting feasible, although travel expenses can accumulate. A daily inter-zone journey can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to frequently walk shorter distances to save on costs. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards aid in decreasing commuting expenses. For longer journeys, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend outside the Underground network, though fares differ based on the route and operator.
Residing in Central London entails a higher cost, but I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a friend. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which allowed us to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and academic fields—an opportunity that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Convenience was also a significant consideration for me. Proximity to grocery stores made everyday life considerably simpler, especially during exam times. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value.
Selecting the right neighbourhood is one of the most crucial choices when relocating to London. The city is a tapestry of lively communities, each boasting its own distinctive character. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that echo their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its prominent South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a diverse selection of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of familiarity and belonging for newcomers.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to cultural centers, closeness to your university, or economical options, London’s varied accommodation landscape has something available. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its neighbourhoods, and relish all that this remarkable metropolis has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s