Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and although that might not appear to be an extended period, it has given me enough time to gather some meaningful perspectives on residing in this lively city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also provides an extensive array of housing options and energetic communities, making it a distinctive place for students to live.
Regarding accommodation, students have numerous options available. From university-operated student residences to private rentals, there’s a variety to cater to different tastes and financial constraints. Choices span from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared apartments and house shares. For local students, arranging viewings is quite hassle-free. Conversely, international students can leverage platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore listings online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my own accommodation hunt, I prioritized finding a residence in Central London. I wished to be near the city’s major attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s vast transport infrastructure—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy navigation. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can become quite expensive, with daily costs reaching up to £5.25. To save on expenses, I often opted to walk short distances rather than depend on public transport. That said, student discounts and Oyster card options significantly lessen travel expenses for daily commutes.
Aside from the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the core zones, providing wider access to the city and its outskirts. Fares vary based on distance and the specific train operator. While residing centrally offers unparalleled convenience, it typically comes with a steeper rental cost. Thankfully, I was able to share a room with a friend, which helped lower our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups—something that can be more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Accessibility to essential shops was another critical element in my housing choice. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily chores much simpler. For more affordable alternatives, shops like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent. Having these facilities nearby was particularly beneficial during hectic exam weeks.
Selecting the right area in London can be overwhelming, given the city’s heterogeneity. London’s multicultural neighborhoods are a prominent characteristic, providing a sense of comfort for many international students. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its active South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese food, retail, and cultural activities. These locales offer a glimpse of home for numerous individuals and enrich the city’s diverse cultural landscape.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London relies on your individual requirements and lifestyle. Whether you seek convenience, culture, or community, London presents a wealth of opportunities. Embrace the diversity, discover the variety of accommodation choices, and maximize your experiences in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s