Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months back, I relocated to London to pursue my master’s degree, and while it might appear to be a brief period, it has provided ample opportunity to discover a lot about residing in this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history and presents a plethora of housing choices for students. Whether you’re in search of student accommodations or private rentals, there’s a variety for everyone—from ensuite bathrooms and shared facilities to studio flats and house shares. Resident students can conveniently arrange to view properties in person, while international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate listings online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for living arrangements, I concentrated on Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most centralized. London’s public transport network—encompassing the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates relatively simple commuting across these zones. Nevertheless, routine inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to cut costs. The Oyster card has been transformative, providing discounted fares for students. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube network, reaching more distant zones with different fare structures depending on the operator and distance covered.
Residing in Central London does come with a higher price tag, but I was lucky to share accommodations with a friend, which significantly alleviated rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that is often more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
Closeness to essential shops was another critical element in my housing choice. Being situated near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made running daily errands much easier. For cost-effective alternatives, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent options. Having these stores in proximity proved especially beneficial during hectic times, such as exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be difficult due to the city’s immense size and diversity. London’s multicultural communities are integral to its identity, and numerous international students gravitate towards areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a vibrant South Asian community, filled with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a rich selection of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of comfort and belonging for newcomers.
In the end, the best area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London has something to provide. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous neighbourhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s