Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that may not appear to be an extended period, it has provided me with ample opportunity to understand life in this vibrant city. London boasts not just cultural and community diversity but also a wide array of housing alternatives available for students. From student accommodations to private rentals, there’s an option for everyone—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses.
For students from the UK, scheduling viewings is quite simple. International students benefit greatly from platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which are essential for discovering living choices online. These websites offer comprehensive details regarding available properties, amenities, and their closeness to public transportation.
During my search for housing, I concentrated on Central London. My aim was to be near Imperial College, significant landmarks, and the city’s lively social scene. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The city boasts a vast public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—which facilitates easy navigation. However, commuting across zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to save money. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards help lessen travel expenses. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, ensuring access to outer zones, though ticket prices vary based on distance and service provider.
Living in Central London can be quite expensive, yet I was lucky enough to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced my rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that’s more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was another crucial aspect for me. Major supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater well to students. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies proves particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood is one of the most critical choices when moving to London. The city’s multicultural areas greatly enhance its charm. Many international students are drawn to locales that mirror their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In the bustling West End, Chinatown presents a vibrant blend of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the multitude of diverse neighborhoods that compose London.
In the end, the ideal living situation in London is contingent on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, convenience, or budget-friendliness, London has plenty to offer. Embrace the diversity, explore your choices, and relish all that this remarkable city has to provide.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s