Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear to be a long duration, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history while also providing a plethora of housing options and lively communities, making it an exhilarating place to reside—particularly for students.
When it comes to accommodation, students are truly spoilt for choice. Whether you’re seeking student-centric housing or private rentals, you’ll discover choices that range from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite hassle-free. Conversely, international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse available listings online, investigate amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my own quest for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I wanted to be near the city’s key attractions, social hubs, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can become pricey, with daily fares reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing public transport. That said, student discounts and Oyster card options greatly alleviate commuting expenses.
London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the central zones, providing additional connectivity. However, fares vary based on the distance and the specific train operator. Residing in Central London can be costly, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to lower our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age ranges—an aspect that can be tougher to find in private rentals.
Convenience to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Prominent supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while budget-conscious options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living in close proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly handy during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be tricky, given the city’s rich cultural mosaic. Numerous international students search for areas that resonate with their home country’s culture. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian community and boasts Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, presents a vibrant mix of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural events. These are just a few illustrations of the many culturally vibrant neighborhoods in London.
Ultimately, the best neighborhood to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and way of life. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, student networks, or central locations, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its neighborhoods, and seize the opportunities this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s