Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that may not seem lengthy, I have gained a wealth of knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is renowned not just for its diverse accommodation options, but also for the lively and heterogeneous communities that inhabit it. Whether you’re a resident or an international student, there are an abundance of housing selections available—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and flat shares. For home students, scheduling apartment viewings is fairly simple, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties virtually, investigate amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transit.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s main attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the core areas. The extensive public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates movement throughout the city. Nevertheless, daily travel between zones can amount to £5.25, prompting me to walk shorter journeys to economize. The Oyster card has proven invaluable in minimizing travel expenses. In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, with ticket prices differing according to distance and the respective train operator.
Residing in Central London certainly comes with a steep cost. Thankfully, I was able to reduce the expense by sharing a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing to foster connections with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s often more difficult to achieve in private accommodations.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students. Living close to essential retail outlets and pharmacies is particularly convenient during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s vast cultural diversity is showcased in its numerous ethnic enclaves, which provide a sense of comfort for international students. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community and boasts Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Concurrently, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods exemplify the cultural wealth that London has in store.
In the end, the most suitable place to live in London is contingent on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re attracted to the convenience of central locations or the cultural dynamism of outer boroughs, London has offerings for everyone. Embrace the diversity, delve into the city’s various communities, and optimize your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s