Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of my stay in London. While it might not sound like a lengthy period, it has certainly provided me with plenty of insights regarding life in this lively and diverse metropolis. London boasts an extensive range of housing options, and its multicultural neighborhoods create a thrilling living environment. Whether you’re a student in search of university accommodations or private rentals, there’s something for everyone—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio flats and house shares.
For students, the hunt for a place to call home can be quite manageable. Domestic students typically have the advantage of scheduling in-person viewings, whereas international students can browse properties online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom. These websites offer comprehensive details about available amenities and local public transport connections, aiding in making well-informed decisions from overseas.
When I initiated my search for housing, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to be near Imperial College, as well as the city’s key attractions and social venues. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s transport system—which includes the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, daily travel across zones can set you back as much as £5.25, so I often opted to walk shorter distances to save on expenses. The Oyster card also assists in minimizing commuting costs for students. Furthermore, services such as the London Overground and National Rail reach beyond the Underground network, providing wider coverage at differing fare rates based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London inevitably comes with a steeper cost, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which helped alleviate rent expenses. I chose intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and ages—something that might have been harder to achieve in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was another significant consideration for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, whereas more budget-friendly choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living in proximity to these stores—and pharmacies—streamlines daily errands, particularly during hectic periods such as exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be challenging, given the city’s vibrant cultural richness. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that resonate with their own cultural heritage. For instance, Southall in West London is known for its robust South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing retailers. Brixton, located in South London, boasts a lively Afro-Caribbean culture and a thriving music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods provide newcomers with a feeling of familiarity and community.
Ultimately, the most suitable place to reside in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and interests. Whether you seek cultural ties, convenience, or affordability, London has much to offer. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its numerous neighborhoods, and relish all the opportunities this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s