Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While that may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for its lively and diverse communities. Students, in particular, have an abundance of choices when it comes to living arrangements. From student halls to private rentals, the selection includes options from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and house shares. For local students, scheduling viewings is relatively simple, while international students can make use of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to peruse listings, examine amenities, and look into transport links online.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. Thankfully, the city offers an outstanding public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy commuting across zones. However, daily travel between zones can cost as much as £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to save on expenses. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards do assist in making commuting more cost-effective. The London Overground and National Rail services also extend beyond the Tube network, covering regions outside the central zones, although fares can differ based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does come with a greater financial burden. To manage costs, I shared a room with a friend, which greatly lowered our rent. I also opted for intercollegiate student housing in hopes of connecting with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widespread, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland offer excellent value. Being near essential stores and pharmacies is particularly helpful during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a challenging choice. The city is a cultural tapestry, with numerous areas reflecting the heritage of various ethnic communities. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its strong South Asian representation, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods provide a sense of familiarity and community for many international students.
Ultimately, the best location to reside in London is contingent on your personal tastes and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, student communities, or central convenience, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the city’s rich neighbourhoods, and make the most of your time in this extraordinary metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s