Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I made the move to London, and although that might not sound like a lengthy period, it has been sufficient to discover a great deal about residing in this vibrant metropolis. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also presents a wide array of housing choices and lively communities. Whether you are a student or a working professional, there is something available for everyone.
For students, there are numerous accommodation choices. From student halls to private rentals, options vary from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio apartments and house shares. Students based in the UK can easily schedule in-person viewings, while those from abroad can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate properties online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
While I was on the hunt for a residence, I concentrated on Central London to remain near Imperial College, major attractions, and social hubs. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transit system—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can accumulate costs, reaching up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances. Luckily, student discounts on Oyster cards help make commuting more budget-friendly. Additionally, services like the London Overground and National Rail stretch beyond the Underground network, granting access to outer zones with varying fare formats.
Residing in Central London carries a steep cost, but I was able to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a friend. We decided on intercollegiate student accommodation, which not only helped us save on rent but also afforded us the chance to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s much harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are superb for students. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror their cultural heritage. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, providing Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese dining, retail, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are just a few illustrations of London’s rich cultural fabric.
In the end, the most suitable place to call home in London is contingent on your personal preferences and necessities. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, closeness to your university, or economical transport solutions, London has much to offer. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its unique neighborhoods, and appreciate everything this remarkable place has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s