Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recent days marked my nine-month milestone in London. Although this duration might seem brief, it’s been sufficient for me to accumulate valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also provides a broad array of housing solutions and lively neighborhoods. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, there’s something tailored for all—ranging from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared apartments and house shares.
For students in particular, options abound. Home students can easily schedule in-person viewings, whereas international students can investigate possibilities online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites present comprehensive listings, complete with amenities and distances to public transit, streamlining the decision-making process from overseas.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London, primarily to remain close to Imperial College, social hubs, and iconic sights. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The exceptional public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively smooth commuting. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily inter-zonal fares reaching as high as £5.25. To minimize expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenses. Additionally, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, granting access to outer zones, though fares vary by operator and distance.
Residing in Central London tends to come with a steeper price, but I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which enabled us to lower our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that proves more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another essential element in my housing selection. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland offer excellent value. Being near vital stores and pharmacies is particularly convenient, especially during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vast and varied landscape. London’s multicultural communities enhance its allure, and numerous international students tend to favor regions that resonate with their cultural identities. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases an extensive selection of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few illustrations of the city’s cultural enclaves.
Ultimately, the optimal living space in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural variety, closeness to university, or budget considerations, London presents a plethora of options. Take advantage of the diverse housing choices, delve into the city’s distinct neighborhoods, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s