Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not appear to be a long duration, I have gained considerable insight into residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and diversity, but also provides a vast range of accommodation choices to meet every student’s requirements. Whether you seek student housing or private leases, options vary from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio units and house shares. For local students, scheduling viewings is uncomplicated, while international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, check amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
As I initiated my accommodation search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to be near the city’s key attractions, social hubs, and, foremost, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitating easy navigation. Nevertheless, daily inter-zonal travel can reach costs of up to £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card has proven invaluable, substantially lowering commuting expenses for students. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into outer zones, with fares differing based on distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London entails a higher price point, but I was fortunate enough to share a room with a friend, which helped alleviate rental costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar age demographics—an aspect that can be more challenging in private leases.
Closeness to grocery shops was another crucial consideration in my choice. Major supermarket brands such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential stores and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during intense exam sessions.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be difficult, but London’s rich cultural variety presents something for everyone. Numerous international students find themselves gravitating toward areas that echo their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End features a bustling center of Chinese food, shops, and cultural gatherings. These neighborhoods are just a few instances of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal place to live in London is contingent on your personal tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or affordability, the city presents an abundance of choices. Embrace the diversity, explore the neighborhoods, and relish everything this extraordinary city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s