Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and though that may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has certainly provided me with ample opportunities to gather valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not just steeped in culture and history; it also boasts a myriad of housing choices and lively neighborhoods that render it an exceptionally distinct place to reside—particularly for students.
When it comes to housing, students have a wealth of options available. Whether you’re searching for student accommodations or private rentals, there is an extensive array of choices such as ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, while international students can browse listings and amenities online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites also offer valuable information about nearby public transport connectivity, simplifying the process of planning your daily commute.
Throughout my personal quest for a place to stay, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My goal was to remain close to the city’s major landmarks, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most centrally located. The city’s vast public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can become costly, with daily fares soaring to £5.25. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter stretches. For longer journeys, price-reduced Oyster card options for students significantly lowered travel expenses. Besides the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach the outer zones, although ticket prices fluctuate based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London does carry a steeper cost, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which helped alleviate the rental burden. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and create a diverse social network—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Closeness to essential retailers was another crucial element for me. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made everyday tasks more manageable. For more economical choices, I often shopped at Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having these shops in the vicinity was particularly advantageous during hectic exam periods when time was of the essence.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can prove difficult, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students tend to flock to areas that mirror their cultural roots. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian population, featuring an abundance of Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese food, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods provide a sense of familiarity and community, offering comfort while being far from home.
Ultimately, the optimal location to live in London is contingent upon your individual requirements and tastes. Whether you’re captivated by the vibrancy of the city center or the charm of its cultural districts, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, consider your options, and savor everything this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s