Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not appear to be an extensive period, it has certainly been sufficient for me to acquire significant insights into life in this vibrant city. London is acclaimed not only for its diverse housing selections but also for its rich and lively communities. Whether you are a local resident or an international student, there is an abundance of accommodation options available—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares.
For home students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple. For international students, platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom prove to be extremely beneficial. These sites enable you to browse listings, evaluate available amenities, and assess proximity to public transport—all while being overseas.
During my search for a place to reside, I concentrated on Central London. I desired to be near the city’s principal attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transportation system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation throughout the city. However, travel between zones can be expensive, with daily inter-zonal trips costing up to £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transportation. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards can considerably alleviate commuting expenses. Furthermore, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the central zones, though fares differ based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a steeper price. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to reduce our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation as I aimed to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something which is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is especially advantageous during hectic times such as exam season.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be a challenging choice. The city’s multicultural communities significantly contribute to its appeal. Numerous international students look for areas that resonate with their cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is known for its substantial South Asian community and contains Indian dining establishments, 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 presents a lively mix of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods are merely a handful of examples showcasing the city’s rich cultural diversity.
Ultimately, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural hubs, wish to be near campus, or are seeking affordability, London provides options for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore your possibilities, and relish every experience this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s