Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and although that duration may not seem extensive, it has been sufficient to gain important perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history, but it also provides a wide range of housing choices and lively communities. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, there’s something available for everyone here.
For students, securing accommodation is relatively simple due to the plethora of options. Ranging from student lodgings to private rentals, choices include ensuite rooms, studios, shared flats, or house shares. Domestic students typically benefit from the ability to arrange in-person viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
During my search for housing, I concentrated on Central London to remain close to Imperial College, key attractions, and social venues. The city is organized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transport system, which includes the Underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy commuting between zones. However, daily inter-zonal travel may incur costs of up to £5.25, prompting me to prefer walking shorter distances to save money. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards help alleviate commuting expenses. In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, although fares can differ based on the route and service provider.
Residing in Central London entails a higher cost, but I managed expenses by sharing accommodation with a friend. We selected intercollegiate student housing, which not only allowed us to cut down on rent but also provided the chance to interact with students from various backgrounds and cultures—an aspect that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Convenience was essential for me, particularly regarding grocery shopping. Proximity to supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified daily tasks. For more economical choices, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Having essential shops in the vicinity is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam seasons.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood can be daunting, but London’s diverse communities present something for everyone. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is praised for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the city’s rich cultural districts.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you seek convenience, community, or culture, London presents an array of choices. Embrace the diversity, explore the neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s