Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Only a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that may not appear as a long span, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some significant perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not just abundant in culture and history but also presents a diverse range of housing types and lively communities, rendering it an exhilarating place to call home—particularly for students.
When it comes to living arrangements, students have an abundance of options. Whether you seek student accommodations or private rentals, there are countless choices available, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange for in-person viewings, while international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online. These sites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, pricing, and proximity to public transport—simplifying the search process from overseas.
In my personal housing quest, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—is extensive and efficient, facilitating easy commutes across zones. However, travel between zones can be pricey, with daily fares going up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than use the tube or bus. Nevertheless, student discounts and Oyster card options assist in making commuting more cost-effective. Services like the London Overground and National Rail also extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas further from the city centre, with fares varying according to distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does come with a higher cost, but I was fortunate to be studying alongside a friend. We chose to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing because I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial element in my decision-making process. Being close to supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily tasks much simpler. For more budget-friendly alternatives, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent. Having essential shops nearby is especially advantageous during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students seek locations that mirror the culture and comforts of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its robust South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling hub of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods are only a few examples of the many cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the best neighbourhood to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural communities, convenience, affordability, or proximity to your university, London caters to everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the different areas, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s