Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days prior, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not appear as an extensive period, it’s been sufficient to gain significant insights about life in this lively city. London is not solely abundant in history and culture but also provides a myriad of housing options and vibrant communities. For students, the selections are vast—spanning student accommodation to private rentals, including options like ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule in-person viewings, while international students can browse properties online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which also furnish information about amenities and transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. My goal was to remain close to the city’s primary attractions, social hotspots, and, most crucially, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transportation system—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, crossing between zones can be expensive, with daily fares reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk short distances instead of using public transit. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly cut commuting expenses. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services connect more remote areas, though fares differ based on the operator and distance traveled.
Residing in Central London carries a steep cost, yet I was fortunate to have a friend studying alongside me. We opted to share a room, which helped us reduce our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
The accessibility of grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being nearby essential shops and pharmacies is a genuine time-saver, especially during hectic exam seasons.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be complex. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital aspect of its character, each contributing unique traits to their respective areas. Numerous international students opt for familiarity by settling in neighbourhoods that resonate with their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its extensive South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling hub of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of London’s rich cultural enclaves.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to the city’s cultural richness, convenience, or dynamic student life, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the variety of housing choices, explore the city’s distinctive neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of all that this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s