Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has certainly provided ample opportunity to absorb a wealth of knowledge about existence in this vibrant city. London is not only recognized for its extensive variety of housing choices but also for the multitude of communities that reside within its boundaries. For students in particular, there is an abundance of accommodation options available—from student dormitories to private rentals—spanning from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and shared houses.
For students, securing accommodation can be exhilarating yet daunting. Domestic students typically have the benefit of attending physical viewings, while international students often turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to search for available properties virtually. These websites offer comprehensive details about amenities, costs, and closeness to public transport, facilitating more informed choices from overseas.
When I commenced my own search, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. I aspired to be near the city’s major attractions, social venues, and 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 public transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—is extensive and well-organized, making navigation straightforward. However, travel expenses can accumulate rapidly. For instance, commuting between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards do assist in lowering commuting costs.
London’s Overground and National Rail services also cover areas beyond the Underground network, reaching the outer zones. Fares fluctuate based on the distance and carrier, so it’s advisable to verify before embarking on a journey.
Residing in Central London does entail a steeper cost. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which significantly alleviated our rental expenses. I opted to stay in intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Being near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified routine errands considerably. For more budget-friendly options, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent. Having essential shopping venues in close proximity is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be formidable, given the city’s vastness and diversity. The ethnic communities of London are an integral part of its cultural fabric, and many international students find solace in areas that represent their heritage. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its flourishing South Asian community, presenting Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. In addition, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese dining, stores, and festivals. These are merely a few examples of the many cultural hubs throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual needs and interests. Whether you are captivated by cultural diversity, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London has something to accommodate everyone. Embrace the variety of housing alternatives, investigate the city’s rich cultural neighbourhoods, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s