Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although this may not appear to be an extensive duration, it has allowed me to acquire some meaningful perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is renowned not just for its iconic sights and expansive history, but also for its varied communities and extensive options for housing. Whether you are a student or a working professional, the city caters to all—from student accommodations and private rentals to studio flats and shared living spaces.
For students, the process of finding accommodation is simplified with resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These platforms enable international students to look through listings online, examine facilities, and gauge proximity to public transportation. Conversely, local students typically benefit from the ability to attend in-person viewings.
During my search for accommodations, I concentrated on Central London to stay near key attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy commuting. Nevertheless, traveling between zones can be pricey, with daily expenses reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lessen commuting costs.
In addition to the Tube, services such as the London Overground and National Rail stretch to outer zones, providing wider connectivity. Prices on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing models of train operators.
Residing in Central London does come with a steeper cost, but I was lucky to share accommodation with a friend, which helped minimize rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
One of my main priorities was being near essential conveniences like grocery stores. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are broadly accessible, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students trying to save money. Being close to these stores is particularly advantageous during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood can prove challenging, but London’s cultural multiplicity has something for everyone. Numerous international students tend to choose areas that echo their cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a lively South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and bustling music environment. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich selection of Chinese delicacies, shops, and cultural festivities.
In the end, the optimal living situation in London relies on your individual requirements and interests. Whether you are in search of cultural familiarity, affordability, or closeness to your university, London’s varied neighborhoods and housing options offer abundant chances to find the perfect match. Embrace the city’s multicultural essence, discover its numerous communities, and maximize your experience in this astounding metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s