Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months prior, I relocated to London to pursue my Master’s degree, and though the duration has been brief, I’ve already gained significant insights into living in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and diversity and provides an array of housing options for students. Whether you seek student accommodations or private rentals, there’s an option for everyone—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings in person, while international students can turn to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
As I initiated my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s major attractions, social venues, and, crucially, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most centrally located. The public transport system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, travel between zones can be pricey, with daily fares going as high as £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. Luckily, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenses. Services like the London Overground and National Rail also extend beyond the Underground network, providing access to more remote zones, though ticket prices vary based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London can be costly, yet I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to lessen our rent burden. I chose intercollegiate student housing because I wanted to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and forge bonds with peers my age—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another crucial element in my housing choice. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent savings. Living near essential shops and pharmacies is especially helpful during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s enormity and diversity. The multitude of ethnic communities in London enrich its culture and form unique neighbourhoods that feel like home for many international students. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End delivers an experience of Chinese culture through its restaurants, shops, and festivals. These are just a few illustrations of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal place to dwell in London is contingent on your individual tastes and lifestyle. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, affordability, or closeness to your university, London has a variety of offerings. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighbourhoods, and relish all that this remarkable city can provide.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s