Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and while that may not appear as an extended period, it has provided ample opportunities to gather insightful experiences regarding life in this dynamic city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also presents a vast array of housing options and varied communities that facilitate settling in for students from diverse backgrounds.
As a student, you will discover numerous housing selections—from university-operated student residences to private rentals. Choices extend from ensuite and shared bathrooms to individual rooms, studios, and house shares. For students based in the UK, arranging in-person viewings is fairly straightforward. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate available properties online, review amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transportation.
During my search for housing, I concentrated on Central London to remain near Imperial College, popular attractions, and social venues. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the core areas. The city’s public transport system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly; for instance, daily inter-zone journeys can cost as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. Additionally, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenses. Services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube network, connecting outer zones to the city center, although fares fluctuate based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London entails a steeper cost, yet I successfully reduced expenses by sharing a room with a university friend. We selected intercollegiate student housing, which not only allowed us to minimize our rent but also enabled us to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more difficult to achieve with private rentals.
Closeness to grocery stores was another pivotal element in my housing choice. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-conscious alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops in close proximity is extremely convenient, particularly during intense exam seasons when every minute counts.
Selecting the right area can be daunting, especially in a city as multifaceted as London. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards neighborhoods that resonate with their cultural roots. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian population and features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Additionally, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling centre of Chinese culinary delights, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods are merely a handful of the numerous cultural enclaves that render London so distinctive.
Ultimately, the optimal location to reside in London hinges on your individual requirements and preferences. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, budget-friendliness, or closeness to your university, London caters to all. Embrace the diversity of this city, discover its various neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s