Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since my arrival in London, and while that might not appear to be an extensive period, it has provided me with ample opportunity to discover a significant amount about life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and diversity, but it also presents a broad spectrum of housing choices for students. Whether you’re in the market for student housing or private rentals, there’s an option to match every taste—ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For local students, scheduling in-person viewings is simple, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s major attractions, social hotspots, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most centralized. The city’s transport network—comprising the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, daily inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to often walk short distances to save on costs. Thankfully, student Oyster cards offer discounted rates, making commuting less expensive. Besides the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend to outer zones, although fares differ based on the route and provider.
Residing in Central London commands a premium, but I managed to lower expenses by sharing a room with a friend. This not only alleviated the rent burden but also enriched the experience. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation because I desired to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and forge friendships with peers—an aspect that can prove more challenging in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another important consideration for me. Major retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland help maintain reasonable grocery expenses. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly helpful during hectic times like exams.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can be daunting, but London’s multicultural communities provide something for everyone. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards neighborhoods that resonate with their cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian population and features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. In the West End, Chinatown acts as a bustling center of Chinese food, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighborhoods offer a feeling of familiarity and community for newcomers.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your unique needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, student-centric housing, or central areas, London provides a plethora of choices. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighborhoods, and relish everything this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s