Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been ample time to discover much about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also in the diverse accommodation choices and communities available. For students, options abound—spanning from university-operated housing to private rentals. Whether you seek ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, or house shares, there’s something to match every taste and financial plan. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can investigate alternatives online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which also furnish information on amenities and transport connections.
During my hunt for housing, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I desired to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares climbing as high as £5.25. To conserve funds, I often opt to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts and Oyster card options significantly lower commuting expenses. The London Overground and National Rail services also reach beyond the Underground network, covering outer zones with varying fare structures based on the route and operator.
Living in Central London can be pricey due to its closeness to main attractions. Thankfully, I was able to share a room with a friend, which assisted us in reducing rent costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to interact with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Proximity to daily necessities was another crucial criterion for me. Being close to grocery retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made everyday tasks simpler. For more economical alternatives, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices. Having these stores in the vicinity is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, but it’s also a chance to immerse oneself in the city’s remarkable cultural variety. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas that resonate with their cultural roots. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and spirited music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a wide variety of Chinese food, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods represent just a few examples of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to the ease of central locations, the cost-effectiveness of outer zones, or the cultural richness of particular communities, London has something for everyone. Celebrate the diversity, explore your choices, and maximize what this extraordinary city presents.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s