Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months back, I relocated to London to embark on my master’s degree journey, and while that timeframe might not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to gather some significant observations about life in this vibrant city. London not only brims with culture and heritage, but it also presents a plethora of housing choices and lively communities, rendering it an exhilarating place to reside—particularly for students.
Regarding accommodation, students are truly spoiled for options. Whether you’re seeking student-specific housing or private rentals, there’s something available for everyone. Choices range from ensuite bedrooms and private studios to shared apartments and house shares. For students based in the UK, scheduling property viewings is quite simple. For international students, websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom facilitate online property exploration, allowing one to examine amenities and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my personal search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s major attractions, social hubs, and above all, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—which makes navigation straightforward. However, inter-zone travel can become costly, with daily travel between zones potentially reaching £5.25. To economize, I often opt to walk short distances instead of utilizing the Tube or bus. Nonetheless, student discounts and Oyster card options significantly alleviate commuting expenses.
Ultimately, I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, sharing a room with a friend. This decision not only reduced rental costs but also afforded me the opportunity to connect with students from various backgrounds and universities—a prospect that is more challenging in private rentals.
Proximity to essential amenities, such as grocery stores, was also a key consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely available, while budget-conscious choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are great for cost management. Being near these stores has proven especially advantageous during hectic exam seasons when time is scarce.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, but the city’s cultural diversity simplifies the search for a place that feels like home. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, filled with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its rich Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a splendid variety of Chinese foods, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods are just a glimpse into the city’s multicultural fabric.
In the end, the optimal living situation in London hinges on your individual tastes and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to the vibrancy of the city center or the allure of a culturally rich neighborhood, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your possibilities, and take full advantage of everything this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s