Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that time frame might not appear extensive, it has provided me with ample opportunities to glean significant insights into life in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history, along with a plethora of accommodation choices and lively communities. For students, the options abound—spanning student-focused housing to private rentals, which include ensuite and shared bathrooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While local students can easily arrange in-person viewings, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, verify amenities, and gauge accessibility to public transport.
When I initiated my hunt for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s major attractions, social hubs, and most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel. However, daily inter-zonal journeys can set one back up to £5.25, prompting me to frequently walk shorter distances to economize. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards help alleviate commuting costs. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, providing access to outer zones, though fares differ based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a higher financial commitment. To keep expenses manageable, I shared a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something often more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Another crucial factor for me was the location of grocery stores. Major chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-conscious options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland help maintain low food costs. Being near supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times, such as examination seasons.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can pose a challenge, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas reflecting their cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is admired for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End serves as a lively center for Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods are just a few illustrations of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal living situation in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you feel drawn to the cultural vibrancy of a specific community or the convenience of being situated close to your university, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your alternatives, and relish everything this amazing city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s