Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may appear to be a brief period, I have already gained extensive insights into residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in history and culture, but it also provides a plethora of housing choices and lively communities that create an exhilarating living environment—particularly for students.
Regarding accommodation, students are presented with an abundance of options. From university halls to privately-rented properties, choices vary from ensuite and shared facilities to studio apartments and house shares. Students from the UK can conveniently organize in-person viewings, while international students can browse listings online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites offer comprehensive details about amenities, rental prices, and closeness to public transport, streamlining the search experience.
In my own housing journey, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to major sites, social venues, and most crucially, Imperial College London, was a priority. The city is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transportation network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, daily travel between zones can set you back up to £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card has significantly contributed to curbing travel costs for my university trips. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground, providing access to outer zones with varying pricing structures based on distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London naturally incurs a steeper cost. Luckily, I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Convenience was a significant factor for me. Being near grocery stores greatly simplified daily life, especially during hectic exam times. Well-known supermarket chains, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, are readily available, while budget-conscious alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent bargains.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a challenging endeavor. London’s diverse communities contribute a distinctive character to the city’s landscape. Numerous international students prefer areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its prominent South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional apparel outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant musical atmosphere. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End showcases a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences. These areas provide a sense of belonging and community that can ease the transition to city life.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on individual tastes and lifestyles. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, student-friendly neighborhoods, or central venues, London accommodates all preferences. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its numerous neighbourhoods, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s