Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and although that might not appear to be a significant duration, I have gained substantial insights into residing in this vibrant city. London is profoundly enriched with culture and history, and it presents a myriad of housing options and lively communities. Whether you identify as a local or an international student, there’s an abundance of housing selections available—from ensuite and communal rooms to studio flats and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international attendees can browse options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites furnish comprehensive details regarding amenities, costs, and closeness to public transport.
When I initiated my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London. I yearned to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, above all, Imperial College’s campus. London is separated into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 regarded as the most central. The extensive public transport network in the city—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, daily inter-zonal commuting can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to frequently choose to walk shorter distances for cost savings. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards contribute to making travel more budget-friendly. In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend to regions beyond the central zones, although pricing differs based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London entails a considerable expense, but I managed to lower costs by sharing a room with a university friend. We opted for intercollegiate student housing, providing us the chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets—something more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another critical consideration for me. Having supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op nearby simplified my daily shopping tasks. For more economical choices, stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Being in close proximity to essential shops and pharmacies proves especially advantageous during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s profound cultural diversity. Many international students tend to favor areas that reflect their cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, offering everything from Indian dining establishments and grocery stores to traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene, while Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the numerous cultural enclaves that render London an extraordinary place to reside.
In the end, the most suitable area to dwell in hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, convenience, or a vibrant social atmosphere, London holds something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its countless neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this exceptional location.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s