Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that might not seem like an extensive period, it has provided ample opportunity for me to discover a lot about life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for its rich and varied communities. Whether you are a student or a working individual, there is no shortage of housing selections available—from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio flats and house shares.
For students, both university-led and privately-owned accommodations present flexible choices. Home students can conveniently schedule in-person viewings, while international scholars can take advantage of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, compare features, and assess closeness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s major attractions, social venues, and above all, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, commuting between zones daily can accumulate costs, with fares soaring as high as £5.25. To economize on travel expenses, I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than taking the tube or bus. Nonetheless, discounted Oyster card alternatives for students help make commuting more budget-friendly. In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, with fares varying depending on distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London comes with a higher cost, but I was lucky to attend university with a friend. We made the decision to share a room, which considerably lessened our rental expenses. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups—something that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was another key priority for me. Popular supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland assist in keeping expenses low. Living near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic periods like exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, but it also presents an opportunity to immerse oneself in the city’s cultural richness. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror their home culture. For instance, Southall in West London is celebrated for its lively South Asian community, hosting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, in the center of the West End, is a bustling area of Chinese food, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of London’s culturally vibrant neighbourhoods.
Ultimately, the finest residence in London hinges on your individual requirements and lifestyle. Whether seeking convenience, affordability, or cultural affinity, London has something to provide. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous neighbourhoods, and savor everything this remarkable place has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s