Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not appear extensive, it has certainly provided me with numerous insights into life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and diversity but also features a broad array of housing alternatives for students. Whether you’re in search of student accommodation or private rentals, there’s something suitable for everyone—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and house shares. For domestic students, arranging viewings is quite simple. In contrast, international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
When I initiated my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and most crucially, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates commuting between zones with relative ease. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily fares sometimes hitting £5.25. To save on costs, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. That being said, student Oyster cards provide discounted fares, making daily travel more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with a hefty price tag, but I was lucky enough to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced my rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation because I hoped to connect with people from various backgrounds within my age bracket—something more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely found, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies proved especially handy during exam periods when time constraints were prevalent.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s immense size and diversity. London’s multicultural communities are a defining element of its identity. Numerous international students prefer neighborhoods that mirror the culture of their home countries. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich assortment of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of the city’s numerous cultural enclaves.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to the convenience of Central London or the cultural depth of its varied neighborhoods, the city has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore different communities, and savor all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s