Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that may not appear to be an extensive duration, it has certainly been sufficient for me to gain a wealth of knowledge about residing in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and heritage but also presents a plethora of housing choices and lively communities. Regardless of whether you are a student or a working individual, there is something for everyone—ranging from student housing to private rentals, with selections including ensuite and shared bathrooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For students, securing accommodation tends to be quite simple. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings, while international students can leverage platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online. These websites offer comprehensive details about available properties, amenities, and closeness to public transportation, greatly enhancing the search experience.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to stay near Imperial College, as well as the city’s primary attractions and social venues. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The city’s extensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates ease of commuting across zones. Nevertheless, daily travel between zones can amount to as much as £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card has also proven beneficial in lowering travel expenditures for students.
Besides the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the central areas, providing enhanced connectivity. Fares fluctuate based on distance and the train operator, but the convenience is undeniable.
Residing in Central London can be quite costly, but I had the advantage of sharing a room with a friend, which considerably alleviated our rent expenses. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which allowed us to interact with fellow students from varied backgrounds and of similar age—something that’s less common in private rentals.
Accessibility to essential shops was another crucial aspect for me. Being near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op streamlined everyday tasks. For more economical options, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland served as excellent alternatives. Having these amenities close at hand was especially advantageous during examination periods when time was scarce.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be challenging, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that mirror their cultural roots. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its sizable South Asian community and offers an array of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene, while Chinatown in the West End pulsates with Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods represent just a few examples of the rich cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the most suitable location to live in London is contingent upon your personal needs and preferences. Whether you’re attracted to cultural communities, closeness to your university, or convenient access to public transport, London has plenty to offer. Embrace the diversity, investigate your choices, and take full advantage of everything this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s