Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not appear extensive, it has been sufficient to gain significant insights into life in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history, alongside an extensive range of housing options and lively communities. For students, the choices are abundant—whether you’re in search of student accommodation or private rentals, you’ll encounter everything from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared apartments and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can investigate options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive details about facilities and transport connections, simplifying the search process considerably.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. My aim was to remain in close proximity to the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and train services—facilitates easy navigation. However, daily travel between zones can cost as much as £5.25, prompting me to frequently walk shorter distances to save on expenses. Fortunately, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly alleviate commuting costs. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube network, reaching outer zones with varying fare systems depending on the distance and provider.
Residing in Central London is pricey, but I was lucky to share accommodations with a university friend, which enabled us to reduce our rent. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something harder to achieve in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery stores was another critical element for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide great savings. Living near essential retailers and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. London’s ethnic enclaves are integral to its character, offering distinctive cultural experiences throughout various regions. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian community and features Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling centre for Chinese food, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of belonging and community for numerous international students.
Ultimately, the most suitable place to reside in London will depend on your individual preferences and lifestyle choices. Whether you’re attracted to cultural hubs, student-friendly locales, or central settings, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its various neighbourhoods, and relish the unique adventure of living in one of the world’s most thrilling cities.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s