Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear to be an extensive period, it has been ample time for me to gather some invaluable perspectives about living in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in cultural variety but also provides a wide range of housing options suited to diverse preferences and necessities. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, you can find everything from ensuite bedrooms and studio flats to shared apartments and private leases. For domestic students, scheduling viewings is fairly uncomplicated, while international students can turn to sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, examine amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. I wished to be near key landmarks, popular social areas, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. The city’s public transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—makes traversing the zones relatively easy. However, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to save funds. Fortunately, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lessen travel costs. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Tube network, providing access to outer zones with variable fare structures based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London does come with considerable expenses, but I managed to lower costs by sharing accommodation with a friend who was also in university. We opted for intercollegiate student housing, which allowed us to connect with classmates from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—an aspect that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Closeness to essential shops was another significant consideration in my accommodation choice. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op—or more economical venues like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland—simplified daily tasks, particularly during hectic exam times. Having pharmacies and other vital services in the vicinity proved to be remarkably convenient.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task, given the city’s broad and diverse landscape. London’s multicultural neighbourhoods are a central aspect of its character, and many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that embody their cultural roots. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End thrives as a bustling center of Chinese dining, shops, and festivals. These areas provide a sense of belonging and community that many students find reassuring.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your unique needs and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural hubs, seeking economical rents, or emphasizing proximity to your university, London has offerings for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its myriad neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of the experiences this extraordinary city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s