Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while it might not appear to be an extensive duration, it has been sufficient to acquire some significant perspectives on residing in this vibrant city. London is a lively metropolis, not only regarding its varied housing options but also due to the rich cultural communities that reside here. For students, the variety of housing selections is plentiful—spanning from student-centric residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and communal bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. While local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, consider amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to stay near Imperial College, as well as the city’s key attractions and social hotspots. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The extensive public transport network in the city—including the Underground, buses, and trains—makes commuting relatively straightforward. However, travel expenses can accumulate quickly; daily inter-zone travel can cost as much as £5.25. To conserve funds, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards considerably lower commuting costs. In addition to the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, with fares differing by distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does come with a steeper price. Luckily, I had the opportunity to share a room with a university friend, which helped reduce rental costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to meet individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups—something that is often challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another critical aspect for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living near essential shops and pharmacies is a genuine time-saver, especially during hectic exam times.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are intricately woven into its cultural identity, presenting a wide array of neighbourhood experiences. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that mirror their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its considerable South Asian population and is filled with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of London’s diverse community neighbourhoods.
In the end, the optimal place to live in London hinges on your personal needs and interests. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, convenience, or affordability, London has something to provide. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its various neighbourhoods, and make the most of your time in this remarkable location.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s