Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it might not appear to be an extensive period, it has allowed me to gain substantial insights into living in this vibrant city. London is well-known for its multitude of housing choices and the varied communities that reside here. For students, the city presents a wide array of living options—from university accommodations to private rentals—including ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, while those coming from abroad can investigate options online through services like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These platforms offer comprehensive listings, featuring amenities and closeness to public transport.
When I started my search for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My goal was to be near the city’s primary attractions, social hubs, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the most central locations. The city possesses an extensive public transit system, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, making it relatively straightforward to commute between zones. However, traveling between zones can add up—costing up to £5.25 daily—so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card has proven invaluable, greatly minimizing travel costs for students. Moreover, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube network, linking outer zones to the city center. Fares for these services fluctuate according to 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 lessen our rent expenses. I chose intercollegiate student housing as I wanted to connect with individuals from various backgrounds who were at a similar point in their lives. Such an environment is harder to find in private rentals.
Another crucial aspect of my housing decision was the proximity to grocery stores. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly helpful during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city is a tapestry of ethnic communities, each adding to its rich cultural fabric. Numerous international students look for neighborhoods that mirror the culture of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of the numerous culturally rich areas throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal living arrangement in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted by the city’s cultural diversity, convenience, or lively student atmosphere, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the variety of housing options, delve into the distinctive neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s