Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it might not seem like an extended period, it has provided me ample opportunity to gain insights about life in this vibrant city. London is well-known not only for its diverse accommodation options but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students here have access to a vast array of housing choices—from student halls to private rentals—including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For domestic students, arranging in-person viewings is simple, while international students can browse their options online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive details about amenities and transport connections, facilitating the search process considerably.
During my quest for a place to stay, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aspired to be near the city’s primary attractions, social scenes, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—provides easy navigation. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily costs soaring to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than relying on public transport. Nonetheless, student Oyster cards bring discounted fares, rendering commuting more budget-friendly. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube’s reach, encompassing regions outside the central zones. Ticket prices on these services fluctuate based on distance and the train provider.
Residing in Central London can be costly, but I was fortunate enough to be attending university alongside a friend. We made the decision to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent expenses. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with people from different backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
The convenience of nearby grocery shops was another significant consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while more budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being in close proximity to essential stores and pharmacies proves particularly useful during busy periods like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s multicultural communities are a fundamental aspect of the city’s character, presenting a rich fusion of cultures and experiences. Many international students favour areas that offer a sense of familiarity akin to home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End bustles with diverse Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of the numerous lively community neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the most suitable area to live in hinges on your personal preferences and way of life. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, student-centric housing, or central convenience, London has something to cater to everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its neighbourhoods, and relish all that this remarkable place has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s