Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I marked the completion of nine months residing in London. Although that duration might not appear extensive, it has provided me with some significant perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London serves not only as a center of culture and activity but also presents a diverse array of housing options and lively communities that make it a distinctive place to call home—particularly for students.
In terms of accommodation, students have an abundance of choices. From student residences to private housing, the offerings range from ensuite and communal bathrooms to private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange in-person viewings, while international scholars can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online. These sites offer comprehensive information about amenities, pricing, and closeness to public transport, simplifying the search process from afar.
During my housing search, I concentrated on locating a place in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social hubs, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six transport zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transportation network—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy commuting between zones. However, traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, prompting me to often walk shorter distances to economize. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly help in lowering commuting expenses. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground, although fares vary based on the route and service provider.
Living in Central London entails a higher cost of living, yet I was lucky to share a room with a university friend, which alleviated rent expenses. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that is more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another critical consideration for me. Prominent supermarket brands like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more affordable choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly convenient during busy times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be tricky, given the city’s vast cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror their native cultures. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian community and offers an assortment of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling locale filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighborhoods provide a reassuring sense of familiarity and community for newcomers.
In the end, the perfect place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, searching for convenience, or wanting a lively student environment, London has something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, explore the city’s many neighborhoods, and savor everything this extraordinary city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s