Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while this might not appear to be an extended period, it has certainly allowed me to gain significant insights about residing in this lively city. London is an energetic urban center, not only because of its vast array of housing options but also due to the myriad of communities that inhabit it. For students, there is an abundance of accommodation choices that are both plentiful and within reach. Whether in search of student housing or private rentals, you’ll encounter everything from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize in-person viewings, while international students can turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to virtually navigate properties, evaluate amenities, and consider proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, my primary focus was securing a room in Central London. My goal was to remain near the key attractions, social hubs, and most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively straightforward commuting between zones. Nevertheless, daily travel across zones can cost as much as £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to save money. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards assist in minimizing commuting expenses. Alongside the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the central zones, providing further connectivity. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing of the train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with elevated costs; however, I managed to decrease my expenses by sharing a room with a fellow student at Imperial. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which allowed us to connect with other students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent for students aiming to economize. Being near essential stores and pharmacies simplified running errands, especially during hectic exam times.
Finding the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s immense cultural diversity is mirrored in its various ethnic enclaves, which provide a sense of comfort for international students. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian community and boasts numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods represent just a few examples of the vibrant cultural tapestry that London has to offer.
In the end, the optimal place to live in London is determined by your individual tastes and priorities. Whether you are attracted to the cultural energy of a specific neighbourhood or the ease of being close to campus, London accommodates everyone. Embrace the richness of the city, discover its various communities, and maximize your time in this remarkable location.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s