Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days back, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that may not seem like a prolonged duration, it has certainly given me a wealth of insights about life in this vibrant city. London brims with culture and history, and it also boasts a broad range of housing options and lively communities. Students, in particular, have numerous choices—from student accommodations to private rentals. Whether you’re in search of ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, or house shares, there’s something that caters to every taste and financial plan.
For local students, scheduling property viewings is relatively easy. However, international students can utilize online resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover available properties, evaluate amenities, and consider their closeness to public transport.
During my search for a place to stay, I concentrated on Central London. I wanted to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and, most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting between zones. Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate quickly; daily inter-zonal journeys may cost as much as £5.25. To save on expenses, I often opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nevertheless, student Oyster cards provide discounted fares, making commuting more economical.
In addition to the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach areas beyond Central London. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the pricing models of operators. Although residing in Central London can be pricey, I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which substantially lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that tends to be more difficult to find in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies is especially helpful during busy times like the exam period.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic communities significantly enrich its cultural fabric. Many international students tend to reside in neighborhoods that mirror their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a slice of Chinese culture through its restaurants, shops, and festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of London’s numerous cultural hubs.
Ultimately, the ideal living location in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural richness, its convenience, or its wealth of opportunities, London truly has something to offer everyone. Embrace the diversity of housing options, explore its distinctive neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s