Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months prior, I relocated to London to embark on my master’s program, and while that might not appear to be an extensive period, it has granted me valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant metropolis. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also presents a diverse array of housing options and active communities that create a distinctive living experience—particularly for students.
When seeking accommodation, students are incredibly fortunate in their selection. From student residences to private leases, options abound, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, arranging property viewings is rather simple. Conversely, international students can benefit from online resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate available listings, compare facilities, and assess closeness to public transport.
In my own quest, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London. I aimed to be near Imperial College London, as well as the city’s key attractions and social venues. London is subdivided into six concentric travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transportation system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, daily travel across zones can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to frequently walk shorter distances to conserve funds. Luckily, student discounts on Oyster cards substantially alleviate commuting expenses. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, providing additional travel choices based on your location and fare zone.
Living in Central London certainly comes with a steep price. To keep my expenses manageable, I opted to share a room with a friend, which enabled us both to reduce rent. I also chose intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the opportunity to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and cultivate a varied social network—an endeavor that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Accessibility to essential shops was another crucial consideration for me. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified daily tasks. For budget-conscious options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Having these stores within close reach proved particularly advantageous during hectic exam phases when time was at a premium.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students seek areas that mirror their cultural roots and comforts. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian population and is home to numerous Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End buzzes with Chinese culinary experiences, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify the cultural wealth London has to offer.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual needs and preferences. Whether you emphasize closeness to campus, cultural resonance, or cost-effectiveness, London presents options for everyone. Embrace the diversity, discover the city’s various neighborhoods, and maximize the opportunities this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s