Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Only a few days ago, I reached the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While it may not seem extensive, this duration has provided me with invaluable perspectives on living in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history while also presenting a plethora of housing options and lively communities for both students and residents.
When searching for housing, students have an abundance of choices. From student accommodations to private rentals, there are myriad options, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For students residing in the UK, arranging in-person viewings is quite simple. On the other hand, international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, assess amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my accommodation hunt, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s key landmarks, social hubs, and, most importantly, Imperial College London was paramount for me. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The vast public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates movement across zones. However, commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I often walked shorter distances to save money. Thankfully, student discounts and Oyster card options contribute to more affordable commuting. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, providing additional connectivity, although fares differ by distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a steeper financial commitment. To offset expenses, I chose to share a room with a university friend, which considerably lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that’s often more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
A major consideration for me was being near grocery stores. Familiar chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also widely accessible. Being located near supermarkets and pharmacies proved particularly beneficial during busy times like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror their cultural roots. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of the many culturally enriched neighborhoods scattered throughout the city.
Ultimately, the most suitable place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle requirements. Whether you’re attracted to the dynamism of Central London or the appeal of its diverse communities, the city encompasses something for everyone. Embrace the range of housing alternatives, delve into the cultural enclaves, and take full advantage of everything this extraordinary city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s