Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might not seem like an extended period, it has afforded me ample opportunity to grasp many aspects of living in this vibrant city. London boasts not only a vast array of housing options but also a rich tapestry of communities that embrace it. For students, the choices are plentiful—spanning from student residences to private accommodations, featuring options like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Students from the UK can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while those from abroad can turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, compare amenities, and assess proximity to public transportation.
During my hunt for accommodation, I targeted Central London. My aim was to be near the city’s key attractions, popular hangouts, and most significantly, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. London’s outstanding public transport network—comprised of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement throughout the city. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can accumulate costs quickly, reaching up to £5.25 per day. To manage expenses, I often chose to walk shorter distances rather than using public transportation. That being said, student discounts on Oyster cards are quite beneficial in decreasing commuting costs significantly. For journeys beyond the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend to outer zones, although ticket prices fluctuate based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a steeper cost, but I was lucky to be attending school with a friend, and we opted to share a room. This decision significantly lowered our rental expenses. I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodation because I aimed to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds of a similar age—something harder to encounter in private rentals.
The availability of grocery stores was another critical consideration for me. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Living near essential shops and pharmacies can save a tremendous amount of time, particularly during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s multicultural communities form a crucial aspect of its identity, providing a plethora of cultural experiences. Many international students gravitate towards areas that resonate with the comforts of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a bustling hotspot for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the numerous culturally vibrant neighbourhoods scattered throughout the city.
In the end, the optimal place to live in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you seek convenience, culture, or community, London offers a little something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience here—it’s a genuinely unforgettable adventure.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s