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 extensive period, it has provided ample opportunity to acquire a significant amount of knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history, but it also presents a diverse range of housing options and lively communities. For students, there are numerous alternatives—spanning from student accommodation to private rentals, including choices such as ensuite rooms, shared flats, studios, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, compare amenities, and review transport links.
When I initiated my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I desired to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and most importantly, Imperial College London. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can accumulate costs, with daily inter-zonal travel reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting expenses. Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the central zones, providing broader connectivity. Fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a steeper cost. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a university friend, which aided in lowering rent expenses. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation as I sought to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that may be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Having essential shops in close proximity is particularly helpful during busy times such as exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can prove to be a challenge, considering the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror their cultural backgrounds. For instance, 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 famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a rich assortment of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of the many dynamic communities that constitute London’s cultural mosaic.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to the cultural richness of certain neighborhoods or the advantages of central locations, London has something to cater to everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its numerous accommodation choices, and relish all that this amazing city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s