Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and although that duration might not appear extensive, I’ve gained considerable insight into residing in this vibrant city. London is not just famous for its wide range of housing options but also for the lively, multicultural populations that inhabit it. Whether you are a student or working professional, there is something available for everyone when searching for housing.
Particularly, students benefit from an extensive selection of living arrangements. With choices from student accommodations to private rentals, the spectrum includes ensuite and shared bathrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. For domestic students, setting up in-person viewings is quite simple. Conversely, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, review facilities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, I focused on securing accommodation in Central London to remain close to major sights, social hubs, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is structured into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central areas. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—making commuting relatively straightforward. However, travelling between zones can incur a charge of up to £5.25 each day, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to economize. Utilizing the Oyster card and student discounts further aids in significantly lowering travel costs. For longer journeys, options such as the London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground, although ticket prices differ based on the route and operator.
Living in Central London does come with an elevated cost. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to share accommodation with a friend, which helped alleviate rental expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student housing because I was eager to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that’s often more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Being near grocery outlets was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies was particularly beneficial during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting, especially in a city as varied as London. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward locales that mirror their cultural heritages. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community and presents an array of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center for Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural events. These locales provide a sense of comfort and connection for newcomers.
In the end, the ideal living location in London relies on your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighbourhoods, proximity to academic institutes, or budget considerations, London presents a diverse and enriching living experience. Welcome the variety, explore your possibilities, and savor all that this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s