Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that may not appear as an extended period, I’ve gained significant insights into residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also presents a myriad of housing choices and lively communities that render it a remarkable place for students to call home.
Regarding housing, students have a wealth of options. Whether you’re in search of student-specific accommodations or private rentals, there are numerous alternatives available, including ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares. Students from the UK typically can arrange in-person viewings without hassle, while international students can depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to navigate listings online. These sites furnish comprehensive details about amenities and nearby transport links, streamlining the search process from overseas.
In my own quest for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be in proximity to the city’s primary attractions, social areas, and, most crucially, 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—facilitates fairly easy commuting. However, travel across zones can accumulate costs, with daily expenses climbing to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter routes rather than utilize public transport. Nevertheless, student Oyster cards do provide discounted fares, assisting in minimizing commuting costs.
Alongside the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the central zones, providing even more commuting possibilities. Fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific train operator.
Living in Central London does incur a higher expense, but I was lucky to study alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room. This considerably lowered our rental costs. I also selected intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a social blend that can be more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial element for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present excellent value. Residing near essential shops and pharmacies proves particularly beneficial during hectic periods, like exam season.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city is a tapestry of ethnic communities, each enriching its diverse cultural landscape. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that embody their home culture. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End showcases a lively assortment of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods offer newcomers a sense of familiarity and community.
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to a specific cultural community, searching for more affordable choices, or desiring to be near your university, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its numerous neighborhoods, and take full advantage of all that this extraordinary place has to grant.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s