Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be a long duration, it has certainly provided me ample opportunity to gain insights about residing in this vibrant metropolis. London is not only famed for its extensive range of housing alternatives but also for the lively and varied communities that inhabit it. For students particularly, the options are plentiful—spanning from student lodgings to private rentals, with choices such as ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares. While domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover properties online, compare features, and assess distances to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to remain close to the city’s prime attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s vast public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, traversing between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing public transportation. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards render commuting more budget-friendly. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London carries a hefty price, but I was lucky to share accommodation with a university friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing since I wanted to connect with other students from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Closeness to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, especially during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London is a task in itself. The city’s multiculturalism is mirrored in its numerous ethnic enclaves, which provide a sense of familiarity for international students. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a diverse assortment of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of the many culturally rich neighborhoods throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal location to reside in London depends on your personal tastes and way of life. Whether you’re searching for cultural familiarity, convenience, or affordability, London has something to present. Embrace the city’s variety, discover its distinctive neighborhoods, and make the most of your time in this remarkable metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s