Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days back, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has certainly provided ample time to absorb a wealth of knowledge about life in this bustling metropolis. London is not just steeped in history and culture; it also presents a wide range of housing choices and lively communities. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, there’s a little something for everyone—from student residences to private rentals, encompassing ensuite rooms, studio flats, shared apartments, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while international students can depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and most crucially, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transportation system in London—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, daily inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25, so I chose to walk shorter distances whenever possible. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards help make commuting more budget-friendly. Beyond the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, though fares can fluctuate based on the operator and distance.
Residing in Central London can be pricey, but I was lucky to split a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Closeness to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are ideal for students. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly handy during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the right neighbourhood is one of the most crucial choices when relocating to London. The city is a tapestry of ethnic communities, each providing a distinct cultural experience. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that mirror their cultural heritage. For example, Southall in West London boasts a vibrant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a thriving centre of Chinese food, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of the vast array of diverse neighbourhoods throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal place to live in London hinges on your personal requirements and interests. Whether you’re seeking cultural similarities, convenience, or affordability, London has something to provide. Embrace the diversity, explore the neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s