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 sufficient to acquire some meaningful perspectives on life in this dynamic city. London is not only abundant in culture and diversity but also provides a wide array of housing choices for students. Whether you seek student-centered accommodations or private rentals, there is something for everyone—from ensuite rooms and studio apartments to shared houses and private flats.
For students, securing a place to stay is simplified with platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites prove particularly useful for international students, enabling them to sift through listings online, compare facilities, and assess proximity to public transport. Domestic students can also schedule in-person viewings with relative ease.
When I was on the hunt for housing, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near key attractions, social spots, and most importantly, the Imperial College campus. London is partitioned into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nevertheless, commuting between zones can add up, with daily inter-zonal travel reaching as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. That said, cost-saving travel options like the Oyster card make commuting more budget-friendly for students.
Aside from the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend into outer zones, providing wider connectivity. Fares on these services fluctuate based on distance and the operator’s pricing model.
Living in Central London does carry a higher cost, but I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent expenses. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to meet individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be harder to encounter in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another key priority for me. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily errands much easier. For budget-friendly alternatives, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent options. Having essential shops close by is especially handy during hectic periods like exam season.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are a major aspect of what makes the city so distinctive. Numerous international students look for areas that mirror their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a rich selection of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few instances of London’s numerous lively community hubs.
In the end, the most suitable place to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted to cultural neighborhoods, wish to be near your university, or are in search of affordable options, London has something to provide. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighborhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s