Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I settled in London, and although that might not seem particularly lengthy, it has been sufficient to acquire some meaningful perspectives on life in this lively city. London is an energetic metropolis, not only in terms of its varied housing options but also in the extensive array of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city presents numerous housing opportunities—spanning from student halls to private rentals—with options like ensuite rooms, studios, shared flats, and house shares readily accessible.
Local students can effortlessly arrange for in-person viewings, while international students can leverage platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to peruse listings online. These sites offer comprehensive information about available properties, detailing amenities and closeness to public transport—an important consideration when selecting where to reside.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London to remain near major attractions, social venues, and critically, the campus of Imperial College. London consists of six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 constituting the city’s nucleus. The public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates convenient travel. However, commuting costs can accumulate, especially when crossing zones. A daily inter-zonal journey may cost as much as £5.25, prompting me to frequently opt to walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card significantly alleviates travel expenses, particularly for students. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching outer zones with various fare structures tailored to distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London carries a premium cost, but I managed to minimize expenses by sharing a room with a friend. We chose intercollegiate student accommodation, which provided us the opportunity to connect with other students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that is often harder to come by in private rentals.
The proximity to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Having supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op in the vicinity facilitated daily tasks. For more economical choices, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vastness and variety. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural identity, and many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror their own backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is noted for its substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are just a few illustrations of the numerous cultural enclaves that distinguish London.
In the end, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you are attracted to the conveniences of central areas, the affordability of outer zones, or the comfort of culturally resonant neighbourhoods, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its many communities, and optimize your experience in this astonishing place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s