Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient to gain significant insights into residing in this vibrant metropolis. London is not merely abundant in culture and history; it also presents a diverse range of housing options and lively communities that create an exhilarating living environment—particularly for students.
For those studying in this city, there is an abundance of housing selections. Ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, one can discover everything from ensuite rooms and studio apartments to shared flats and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students take advantage of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which allow them to search for properties online, examine amenities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
During my housing search, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s major attractions, social hubs, and, most 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 exceptional public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively uncomplicated commuting between zones. Nonetheless, inter-zonal travel can run up to £5.25 daily, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to economize. However, student discounts on Oyster cards can greatly lessen transportation costs. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, providing greater coverage, albeit with diverse fare structures depending on the route and operator.
Residing in Central London does indeed come with a steeper price, but I was fortunate to study alongside a friend, and we decided to cohabit a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, hoping to encounter peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Living near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made handling daily errands much more manageable. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Having essential shops nearby is particularly advantageous during busy times such as exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror their cultural backgrounds. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese dining, shops, and festivals. These neighborhoods are just a few instances of the rich cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In conclusion, the optimal place to live in London truly depends on your individual needs and desires. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, closeness to your university, or reasonable rent, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the variety of neighbourhoods, and relish the vibrant experience that life in London provides.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s