Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of living in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I have gathered a wealth of knowledge about life in this dynamic city. London boasts not only a rich cultural tapestry and diversity but also a wide array of housing choices for students. Whether you seek student dormitories or private leases, options abound—ensuite accommodations, studios, shared apartments, and house shares are all easily accessible. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person visits, while international students can browse properties online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to evaluate features and transport links.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key sites, social centers, and, most crucially, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transportation system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, crossing between zones can be costly, with daily expenses reaching up to £5.25. To cut costs, I often chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. Fortunately, student Oyster cards greatly diminish commuting expenses. For longer trips, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube network, although fares can differ by route and operator.
Residing in Central London inevitably comes with higher expenses, but I was lucky to have a friend studying with me. We opted to share a room, which allowed us to lower our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and forge friendships with peers—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another significant consideration. Supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is a genuine time-saver, especially during busy times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be a challenging choice. The city’s rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its numerous ethnic communities, each exuding a distinct ambiance. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a vibrant zone filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples represent just a few of the colorful neighborhoods that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural communities, student-centric areas, or tranquil residential spots, London presents an abundance of options. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its myriad housing choices, and relish all this remarkable place has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s