Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months ago, I relocated to London to embark on my postgraduate journey. Although it might seem like a brief period, these months have significantly enriched my understanding of life in one of the globe’s most vibrant cities. London boasts not just a wealth of culture and history, but also a plethora of housing options and lively communities that ease the transition for students.
Regarding lodging, students have an abundance of choices. Whether you’re after student-specific housing or private rentals, there’s something available for everyone—ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares are all plentiful. Domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online. These websites offer comprehensive details about amenities, pricing, and proximity to public transport, simplifying the decision-making process from abroad.
In my own search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near Imperial College, along with the city’s key attractions and social venues. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The city’s public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—is vast and efficient, facilitating easy navigation. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares soaring to £5.25. To reduce costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances. For longer journeys, discounted Oyster cards for students proved beneficial in curtailing travel expenses. London Overground and National Rail services also extend beyond the Underground, connecting outer zones with diverse fare structures based on operator and distance.
Living in Central London does entail a steeper cost, yet I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which alleviated the rent burden. We chose intercollegiate student housing, allowing us to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Closeness to essential shops was another crucial aspect for me. Being near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily tasks more manageable. For more economical options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Having these stores in the vicinity proved particularly beneficial during examination seasons when time was of the essence.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be daunting, but London’s multicultural communities provide a sense of comfort for many international students. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian demographic and features Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a glimpse of Chinese culture through its restaurants, shops, and festivals. These neighbourhoods offer a welcoming sense of home away from home.
In the end, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual requirements and preferences. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hotspots, student hubs, or tranquil residential locales, London caters to all tastes. Embrace the diversity, delve into the city’s numerous neighbourhoods, and savor everything this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s