Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this timeframe may appear brief, it has provided me with profound insights into the vibrant lifestyle of this remarkable city. London is celebrated not only for its extensive housing options but also for the lively communities that inhabit it. Whether you’re a native or an international scholar, you’re sure to find an abundance of living arrangements—from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio flats and house shares. Local students often benefit from the ability to attend in-person viewings, while international students can take advantage of online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties, evaluate amenities, and gauge closeness to public transit.
During my quest for a residence, I prioritized locating a room in Central London. My goal was to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is sectioned into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transportation system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, inter-zonal trips can run as high as £5.25 daily, prompting me to frequently walk shorter distances to economize. That said, student discounts available on Oyster cards have made commuting more budget-friendly. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Tube network, providing access to outer zones with varying fares based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does come with a steeper cost, but I was fortunate enough to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores also played a vital role in my housing selection. Prominent supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland deliver excellent value. Being near essential stores and pharmacies is extremely handy, especially during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s remarkable cultural diversity. Many international students look for locales that echo the culture and comforts of their homeland. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents an exhilarating mix of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few illustrations of the numerous cultural hubs that contribute to London’s distinctiveness.
In the end, the most suitable place to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and lifestyle necessities. Whether you’re attracted to the city’s cultural vibrancy, its convenience, or its limitless housing variety, London offers something for everyone. Embrace its diversity, explore the neighborhoods, and make the most out of your experience in this extraordinary city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s