Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of living in London. While that may not appear to be an extensive period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is abundant in culture and history and presents a vast array of accommodation choices alongside lively communities. Whether you are a resident or an international student, numerous housing options are at your disposal—from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studios, and house shares.
For international students, resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom prove to be exceedingly useful. They enable you to browse listings, view images and amenities, and assess proximity to public transport—all from another country. While home students can attend in-person viewings with greater ease, these online platforms provide equitable access for those arriving from abroad.
When I was on the hunt for a place to reside, my focus was on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an extensive public transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—making it relatively straightforward to navigate. However, daily inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to economize. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards contribute to lowering commuting expenses. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, linking outer zones to the city center. Fares fluctuate based on distance and the train provider.
Residing in Central London can be pricey, but I was lucky to study alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room. This substantially decreased our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation as I wished to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that can be more challenging in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Major supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students seek areas that mirror the culture and community of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian populace and features Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a bustling locality filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of the many culturally enriched neighborhoods London has to offer.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London largely hinges on your personal preferences and lifestyle requirements. Whether you are attracted to the cultural districts, the convenience of central locations, or the affordability of outer zones, London caters to everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your options, and savor all that this extraordinary city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s