Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may appear brief, it has been sufficient to acquire insightful perspectives on life in this vibrant metropolis. London not only brims with culture and history but also provides a plethora of housing choices and lively communities. For students, the options abound—from student accommodations to private rentals, featuring ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
Local students can effortlessly arrange in-person viewings, while international students can take advantage of online resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites enable you to explore listings, evaluate amenities, and assess distance to public transport—all while being abroad.
During my hunt for a residence, I concentrated on Central London to remain close to the city’s primary attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s vast public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy commuting. Nevertheless, traversing between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to conserve funds. That being said, student discounts on Oyster cards make traveling more budget-friendly. The London Overground and National Rail services also extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares differ based on distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London carries a hefty price tag, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which alleviated my rental expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation because I aimed to interact with individuals from varied backgrounds who are around the same age—something that can be more difficult in private rentals.
Closeness to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while budget options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near vital stores and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, particularly during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s extensive size and diversity. London’s ethnic communities add unique richness to its neighbourhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that resonate with their cultural roots. For instance, Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian presence, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, serves as a thriving hub for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These locales provide newcomers with a sense of familiarity and community.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, closeness to your university, or budget-friendly solutions, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its numerous neighbourhoods, and relish everything this remarkable city presents.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s