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 a substantial period, it has certainly been sufficient for me to gain considerable insights into residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also provides a broad range of housing possibilities and lively communities. Whether you are a resident or an overseas student, there is no shortage of accommodation options available—from student halls to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studios, and house shares.
For international students, websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom are exceptionally beneficial. They enable you to examine listings online, explore amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport—all from your home country. Domestic students, however, can frequently arrange for face-to-face viewings quite easily.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed for Central London to remain near Imperial College, key attractions, and social venues. The city is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The vast public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel. Nevertheless, commuting between zones can become expensive, with daily fares potentially soaring to £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk for shorter journeys instead of utilizing public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts and Oyster card deals significantly help lower travel expenses.
London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching outer zones and suburbs. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance traveled and the train operator. While residing in Central London is convenient, it does come with a steeper cost. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend, which allowed us to lower our rent expenses. I chose intercollegiate student housing in hopes of connecting with classmates from various backgrounds and age ranges—something that can often be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Another key priority for me was living near essential shops. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while more budget-friendly choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to grocery stores and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods, saving both time and energy.
Selecting the right area in London can be quite complex. The city is a rich tapestry of ethnic communities, each presenting its own distinctive cultural experience. Numerous international students seek neighborhoods that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community and is renowned for its Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a lively center of Chinese food, shops, and festivals. These are merely a few of the varied neighborhoods that compose London’s cultural tapestry.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural hubs, searching for budget-friendly options, or emphasizing convenience, London offers something to suit everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore various possibilities, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s