Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while it might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge about residing in this dynamic city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also showcases a remarkable assortment of housing options and varied communities, creating a sense of belonging away from home.
For students, the city offers various housing alternatives—from student accommodations to private rentals. These options comprise ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse properties online, assess amenities, and verify closeness to public transportation.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London to stay near significant attractions, social venues, and crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London consists of six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central regions. The city’s extensive public transport network—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, daily travel between zones can amount to as much as £5.25, prompting me to walk shorter distances to save on expenses. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting costs. The London Overground and National Rail also extend beyond the central zones, though fares differ based on distance and the train service provider.
Residing in Central London entails a higher cost, though I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which reduced rental expenses. I decided on intercollegiate student accommodation in hopes of connecting with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Another crucial factor in my decision-making was the accessibility of grocery stores. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential stores and pharmacies has proven particularly useful during hectic exam times.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s cultural variety. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that resonate with their cultural identities. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its bustling South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is lauded for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End stands out as a lively centre of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are just a few instances of the rich cultural pockets that render London distinctive.
Ultimately, the ideal living situation in London hinges on individual tastes and lifestyles. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, proximity to your university, or budget-friendly living, London caters to everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its neighbourhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s