Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just several days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has certainly afforded me significant insights into life within this dynamic city. London is not only abundant in history and culture but also provides a plethora of housing choices and varied communities. For students, the options are extensive—spanning from student residences to private rentals, including alternatives like ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can navigate listings through platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, offering comprehensive details about amenities and transport connections.
When I initiated my accommodation search, my focus was primarily on securing a room in Central London. I wished to be near the city’s key attractions, social hubs, and most crucially, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport network—comprising the Tube, buses, and trains—is extensive and effective, facilitating easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares climbing as high as £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transportation. Nonetheless, student discounts and Oyster card options considerably lessen commuting costs. For longer trips, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground system, although fares differ according to the route and provider.
Residing in Central London indeed carries a higher financial burden, but I was fortunate to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to lower our rent expenses. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation as I aimed to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic times such as exam weeks.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be a daunting task, given the city’s remarkable cultural diversity. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that evoke the familiarity of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the myriad vibrant communities that constitute London.
In the end, the most suitable place to reside in London is contingent upon your personal tastes and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, student-oriented housing, or efficient transport links, London caters to all. Embrace the diversity, explore your choices, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s