Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that may appear to be a short span, I’ve learned quite a lot about life in this bustling city. London is not only abundant in culture and history, but it also presents a vast array of housing choices and lively communities that serve students from various backgrounds.
Regarding accommodations, students are afforded ample options. Whether you are on the lookout for student residences or private rentals, possibilities range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For students based in the UK, viewing flats in person is fairly easy. Conversely, international students frequently depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse listings online, examine amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In the course of my own quest, I was eager to find a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s prime attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s transport network—consisting of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones daily can incur costs of up to £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to conserve funds. For routine commutes, discounted Oyster card options render travel more economical. Beyond the Tube, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend to outer zones, although fares can differ based on the distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London does entail a higher cost. Fortunately, I managed to share a room with a university friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to essential shops was another priority for me. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, or budget-friendly stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland, simplifies daily tasks—especially during hectic exam seasons. Pharmacies and other convenience stores nearby also contribute to the comfort of life here.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can feel daunting. The city is a tapestry of ethnic communities, each offering a distinctive cultural experience. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror their own cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a rich selection of Chinese food, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods offer a sense of belonging and community for many newcomers.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual requirements and lifestyle. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, cost-effectiveness, or closeness to university, London has a little something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, discover the city’s numerous neighborhoods, and take full advantage of what this remarkable city presents.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s