Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and although that might not seem like a significant duration, it has been ample time to acquire some meaningful perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history, and it provides a diverse array of living arrangements and lively communities, making it an exhilarating place to reside—particularly for students.
Regarding accommodation, students are truly spoilt for choices. Whether you’re in search of student housing or private rentals, numerous options abound, such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private or shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students have the convenience of setting up in-person viewings, while international students can make use of online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties, evaluate amenities, and understand the proximity to public transportation.
In my own search, I prioritized securing a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, popular social venues, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding public transit system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—that makes travel between zones easy. Nonetheless, daily inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to economize. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards help lower commuting expenses. For extended distances, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, although fares fluctuate depending on the operator and distance.
While living in Central London entails a higher cost, I managed to minimize expenses by sharing a room with a friend. We chose intercollegiate student housing, which not only allowed us to save on rent but also provided the chance to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds—something that can be harder to achieve in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another essential consideration for me. Having supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op nearby simplified daily tasks, particularly during hectic exam times. For more economical choices, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s immense diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that reflect their cultural heritage. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, offering everything from Indian cuisine to traditional apparel. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene, while Chinatown in the West End is a bustling centre of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual needs and preferences. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, wish to be near your university, or are simply seeking affordable housing, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, discover the city’s distinctive neighbourhoods, and make the most of all the fantastic experiences this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s