Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months prior, I relocated to London to embark on my master’s studies, and while that may seem brief, it has been sufficient to acquire essential knowledge about student life in this vibrant metropolis. London is not just celebrated for its famous sights and deep-rooted history, but also for its eclectic communities and a variety of housing options. Whether you’re a domestic or an international student, there’s something to suit everyone—from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio flats and house shares.
Finding accommodation as a student is relatively uncomplicated. Students residing in the UK can seamlessly arrange for in-person visits, while those from abroad can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings virtually. These platforms furnish comprehensive details regarding amenities, prices, and closeness to public transport, simplifying the decision-making process from overseas.
As I commenced my search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near Imperial College and the city’s primary attractions and social venues. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts a vast public transit system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—rendering travel between zones easy, albeit not always economical. Daily journeys across zones can amount to £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to economize. However, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lessen commuting expenses. Services like the London Overground and National Rail also reach beyond the Underground network, providing additional travel options based on one’s location.
Residing in Central London invariably incurs higher costs, but I was lucky to share accommodation with a friend, which alleviated the rent burden. I selected intercollegiate student housing because I aspired to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and foster a community with those who are in a similar life stage—something that can be trickier to achieve in private rentals.
Accessibility to essential shops was another crucial aspect for me. Being near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily tasks much simpler. For more economical choices, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Having these in close proximity proved particularly advantageous during exam times when my schedule was tight.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting, but London’s cultural richness caters to diverse tastes. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror their cultural roots. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its lively South Asian community, replete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End presents a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These communities not only provide a sense of belonging but also enhance London’s distinctive multicultural character.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your personal likes and needs. Whether you seek cultural enrichment, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London boasts a neighbourhood suited to your requirements. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its various communities, and relish everything this extraordinary city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s