Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While that might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has certainly been sufficient to gain a few significant insights about life in this bustling metropolis. London is renowned not just for its extensive range of lodging choices but also for its lively and varied communities. Whether you are a resident or an international scholar, there are numerous housing options available—from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio flats and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can investigate their options via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer virtual tours, details on amenities, and insights about nearby transport links.
When I initiated my hunt for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near famous landmarks, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the core. The city features an outstanding public transport network, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation. However, inter-zonal travel can be costly—up to £5.25 daily—so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to conserve funds. Luckily, student discounts on Oyster cards assist in lowering travel expenses. For lengthier trips, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Tube system, though fares differ based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London comes at a premium, but I effectively reduced expenses by sharing a room with a fellow student. This arrangement not only lessened rent costs but also facilitated my adjustment to a new city. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation as I wished to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Another crucial consideration for me was the closeness to essential shops. Being situated near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily chores much more manageable, especially during hectic exam periods. For more economical alternatives, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are fantastic choices.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s rich cultural variety. Many international students are drawn to areas that reflect their cultural identities. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing vendors. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and dynamic music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End provides a glimpse of East Asia with its selection of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighbourhoods are merely a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the optimal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, closeness to your university, or budget-friendly rents, London has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its neighbourhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s