Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a handful of days ago, I reached the nine-month mark of residing in London. While this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided me with substantial insights into the experiences of living in this vibrant metropolis. London is renowned not just for its extensive range of housing options, but also for the rich tapestry of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents an abundance of accommodation choices—from student halls to private leases, encompassing ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule in-person viewings, while international students have the opportunity to investigate options online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites offer comprehensive details on facilities and closeness to public transportation, making the search process far more straightforward.
When I was on the hunt for a place to live, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to remain close to the city’s key attractions, vibrant social areas, and most critically, Imperial College London. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the Underground (commonly referred to as the Tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies commuting across zones. However, traveling between zones can be pricey—up to £5.25 daily—so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to conserve funds. Nevertheless, student discounts and Oyster card options significantly diminish travel expenses. Beyond the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, though fares fluctuate based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London does involve a steeper cost, but I was lucky to attend university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room. This arrangement significantly reduced our rent. I decided to stay in intercollegiate student accommodation, which enabled me to connect with other students from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets—an opportunity that is often scarce in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly handy during busy times like exam periods, where every moment is precious.
Determining the right neighbourhood in London can prove to be a daunting task. The city is a rich mosaic of ethnic communities, each adding to its cultural tapestry. Numerous international students are attracted to areas that resonate with the culture of their home nations. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean roots and dynamic music atmosphere. On the other hand, Chinatown in the West End presents a taste of Chinese culture with its eateries, markets, and festivals. These are merely a few illustrations of the numerous culturally distinct neighbourhoods throughout the city.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and lifestyle choices. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, closeness to campus, or affordability, London offers an array of options. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its unique neighbourhoods, and make the most of your time in one of the globe’s most exhilarating cities.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s