Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that may not appear to be a significant duration, it’s been sufficient to acquire some important perspectives on life in this energetic city. London is renowned not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for the lively and diverse groups that reside here. Students in this city are truly fortunate—whether it’s university-run accommodations or private rentals, choices span from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. For local students, securing viewings is quite simple, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to examine listings, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport—all from overseas.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s main attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—consisting of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, commuting between zones can accumulate in costs, with daily inter-zonal travel costing as much as £5.25. To save some money, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transportation. That being said, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lower commuting expenses. Aside from the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, though fares differ based on distance and the train service provider.
Residing in Central London entails a high price, but I was lucky to be studying with a friend. We chose to share a room, which allowed us to cut down our rent expenditure. I selected intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age demographics—something that can be more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another important consideration for me. Prominent supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widespread, while economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops and pharmacies saves a lot of time, particularly during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be quite tricky. The city is a patchwork of cultural communities, each providing a distinct atmosphere. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its dynamic South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is lauded for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End functions as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are merely a few examples of the extensive cultural diversity London boasts.
In the end, the best location to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous neighbourhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable destination.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s