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 seem lengthy, I’ve already gained significant insights into residing in this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history while also providing an array of housing options and lively communities. Regardless of whether you are a student or a working professional, there’s something available for everyone.
Students specifically have a multitude of housing selections—from student dormitories to individual rentals. Choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, studio apartments, and house shares. For students based in the UK, arranging viewings is fairly uncomplicated. In contrast, international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore listings, examine amenities, and evaluate transport connections remotely.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London to remain near Imperial College, essential attractions, and social hubs. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most accessible. The extensive public transportation system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, daily inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25, leading me to often opt to walk shorter distances to save funds. For longer trips, discounted Oyster card schemes for students aid in minimizing travel costs. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, providing access to more remote regions, although fares fluctuate depending on the provider and distance.
Residing in Central London does come with higher costs, but I succeeded in reducing expenses by sharing a room with a friend. We chose intercollegiate student housing, which not only assisted in financial planning but also enabled us to connect with peers from various backgrounds—an opportunity that’s often limited in private accommodations.
The accessibility of grocery stores was another essential criterion in deciding where to reside. Chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, while budget-conscious alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland deliver excellent value. Being near supermarkets and pharmacies is particularly convenient during hectic times such as examination periods.
Choosing the right neighborhood can be tricky, but London’s multicultural fabric provides something for every taste. Numerous international students look for areas that represent their home culture. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its lively South Asian community, with an abundance of Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean roots and dynamic music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese culinary delights, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of the city’s diverse cultural enclaves.
In the end, the ideal place to live in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, closeness to your institution, or accessibility to public transport, London provides a varied and thrilling selection of choices. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighborhoods, and take pleasure in everything this remarkable place has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s