Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although it may not appear as an extended period, it has been sufficient to gather insightful perspectives on life in this vibrant metropolis. London is famed not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively and multicultural communities. Whether you’re a student or a working individual, there exists an abundance of accommodation alternatives—from ensuite and shared rooms to studio flats and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule in-person apartment viewings, while international students can peruse listings and amenities online through platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These sites also offer essential information regarding nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an extensive public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitating easy navigation. However, commuting between zones can be pricey, with daily inter-zonal fares climbing to £5.25. To economize, I typically opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lower travel costs. Moreover, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, providing access to outer zones. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the operator.
Residing in Central London entails a higher expense, but I was fortunate to be at university alongside a friend. We decided to share a room, which enabled us to minimize rent costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation because I aimed to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while cost-effective options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living near essential shops and pharmacies proves especially beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vast cultural diversity. Many international students gravitate towards areas that mirror the culture of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a lively environment filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the numerous culturally rich neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal place to call home in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted by the cultural vibrancy of certain communities or the practicality of proximity to campus and public transport, London presents opportunities for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your choices, and relish everything this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s