Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Only a few days prior, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be an extended period, it has certainly provided me with ample opportunity to discover much about life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its extensive selection of housing alternatives but also for the varied communities that inhabit it. For students, there is an abundance of housing options readily available — ranging from student accommodations to private leases, including ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses.
Local students can conveniently arrange in-person apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online. These websites offer comprehensive details about available amenities and their distance to public transport, simplifying the process for newcomers arriving from overseas.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My aim was to be near the city’s prominent attractions, bustling social venues, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an excellent public transport network — including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains — facilitating easy navigation. Nevertheless, traveling daily across zones can incur costs of up to £5.25, prompting me to frequently walk shorter distances to save on expenses. Fortunately, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lower commuting fees. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center. Fares vary according to distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a steeper price, but I was lucky to be studying with a friend. We decided to share a room, which helped us to minimize our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation as I desired to connect with individuals from different backgrounds who were at similar life stages — something that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another critical consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are broadly available, while more affordable choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, especially during busy exam periods when time is of the essence.
Selecting the right neighbourhood can be a challenging choice. London’s diverse population gives rise to energetic communities that embody the city’s global essence. Many international students look for areas that provide a sense of familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, thrives as a bustling centre of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal place to live in London relies on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you’re in search of cultural connections, affordability, or convenience, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighbourhoods, and relish everything this remarkable place has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s