Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since my relocation to London, and although that might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been sufficient for me to gain extensive insights into life in this vibrant city. London is not just filled with cultural variety but also provides an extensive range of housing choices for students. Whether you’re in search of student-oriented residences or private rentals, there is something available for all—ensuite rooms, private studios, shared flats, and house shares are all easily accessible. For local students, arranging viewings is fairly simple, while international students can make use of platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to discover properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
During my search for housing, I concentrated on Central London to remain near Imperial College, as well as the key attractions and social scenes of the city. London is categorized into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement. However, daily travel between zones can amount to as much as £5.25, which led me to walk short distances to cut costs. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards render commuting more budget-friendly. Moreover, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching further areas with varying fare systems.
Living in Central London does entail a higher cost. To help manage expenses, I shared a room with a university friend, which significantly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students. Being in close proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly handy during busy times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable cultural diversity. Many international students are drawn to areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its lively South Asian community, replete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End bustles with Chinese culinary delights, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few examples of the cultural vibrancy that makes London special.
In the end, the ideal residence in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Embrace the city’s richness, discover its numerous neighbourhoods, and take advantage of the wide array of accommodation options on offer. Living in London is an exhilarating journey, and with some forethought, it can also be a comfortable and fulfilling one.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s