Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that might not appear to be an extended period, it has provided me with valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also presents a diverse array of housing choices and lively communities. For students, there are numerous options—from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studios, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange in-person viewings, while international students typically depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties online, compare amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my search for a place to stay, I concentrated on Central London to remain near major landmarks, entertainment venues, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transportation system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates commuting across zones relatively seamlessly. However, traveling between zones can be costly, amounting to as much as £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards considerably lower travel costs for daily journeys. In addition, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing outer zones with fare structures that differ based on the operator and distance traveled.
Residing in Central London carries a hefty price, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which assisted in reducing rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, hoping to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was another crucial factor for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland offer more economical options. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, as each area possesses its own unique charm. The city’s multicultural communities are an integral aspect of its identity. Many international students search for neighborhoods that mirror the culture of their homeland. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian demographic and is filled with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End boasts a lively mix of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of the eclectic neighborhoods that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the optimal place to live in London hinges on your personal tastes and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural centers, student communities, or cost-effective areas, the city caters to everyone’s needs. Embrace the diversity, explore your choices, and maximize your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s