Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that might not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient to garner some invaluable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its extensive range of housing choices but also for its lively and diverse communities. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, there is no lack of accommodation options—from shared and ensuite rooms to studio flats and house shares.
For students, there are numerous choices in both university-sponsored and private housing. Local students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, while international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate amenities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, I concentrated on finding a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social centers, and most importantly, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s remarkable public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement. However, traveling between zones can add up to £5.25 a day, so I often preferred walking shorter routes to cut costs. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards help make commuting more budget-friendly. The London Overground and National Rail services also reach beyond the Underground network, covering outer zones with varied fare structures based on distance and operator.
Living in Central London carries a hefty price, but I was lucky enough to share costs with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, something harder to achieve in private rentals.
Another essential consideration in selecting my residence was proximity to grocery stores. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly convenient during peak periods like exam seasons.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given its rich cultural landscape. Many international students tend to settle in areas that mirror their home cultures. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its sizeable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the West End, is a bustling enclave of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of the culturally diverse neighborhoods found throughout the city.
In the end, the most suitable place to live in London is contingent upon your individual tastes and lifestyle. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, convenience, or affordability, London presents something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, venture into its distinct neighborhoods, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s