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 long duration, it has certainly given me enough time to discover a lot about life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also in the myriad of living arrangements it presents. Whether you are a student or a working professional, there are numerous types of accommodations available—from ensuite and shared rooms to studio flats and house shares.
For students, housing options managed by universities and private rentals offer numerous selections. Local students can effortlessly schedule in-person viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to virtually examine properties. These sites also offer valuable details regarding amenities and transport connections, aiding students in making informed choices even before they set foot in the UK.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on finding a room in Central London. I aimed to be near Imperial College, as well as the main attractions and social scenes of the city. London is segmented into six fare zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The city’s public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy navigation. However, the costs of traveling between zones can add up, with daily inter-zonal journeys potentially reaching £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards considerably lower commuting expenses.
Alongside the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the primary zones, enhancing connectivity. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing model of the operator.
Residing in Central London does come with a steeper cost, but I was lucky enough to share a room with a friend, which significantly decreased our rent. We elected to engage in intercollegiate student accommodation, providing us the opportunity to connect with peers from various backgrounds—something that might have been more complicated in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Prominent supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while budget-conscious alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland deliver excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is especially handy during hectic times like exam seasons.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can prove to be tough, given the city’s vast and varied landscape. London’s multicultural communities are one of its greatest assets, offering a sense of familiarity for international students. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is an energetic hub of Chinese delicacies, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods provide a comforting sense of home away from home.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual requirements and preferences. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighborhoods, student communities, or central locations, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your choices, and relish everything this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s