Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that might not appear to be a significant stretch of time, it has been ample to discover much about residing in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history and provides a broad range of housing choices along with lively communities. Whether you are a resident or an international student, there is something for everyone—from student accommodations to private leases, spanning options from ensuite rooms and studios to shared flats and house shares.
For international students in particular, platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom facilitate the exploration of housing alternatives online. These websites offer comprehensive details regarding amenities, costs, and closeness to public transportation, assisting students in making well-informed choices prior to their arrival in the city. Domestic students typically have the benefit of attending viewings in person, but online resources help close the distance for those coming from overseas.
When I was on the hunt for a place to stay, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near Imperial College, as well as the city’s key attractions and social hotspots. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central locations. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—including the Tube, buses, and trains—enables relatively easy commuting. Nonetheless, traveling daily between zones can be expensive, with fares surging up to £5.25. To conserve funds, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Moreover, student discounts on Oyster cards greatly lessen travel expenses.
In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services link areas outside the central zones. Fares on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing policies of the operating company.
Residing in Central London does entail a steeper cost, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which helped lessen our rent burden. We chose intercollegiate student housing, which allowed us to connect with other students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to everyday necessities was also a key consideration for me. Being near supermarkets and pharmacies significantly streamlined life, especially during hectic times such as exam periods. Prominent grocery stores like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, while economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value for students.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, yet it is also a chance to engage with the city’s remarkable cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to favor areas that represent their own cultural heritages. For example, Southall in West London is famed for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a rich selection of Chinese culinary delights, shops, and cultural happenings.
In the end, the optimal area to reside in hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, budget-friendliness, or closeness to your university, London has something to provide. Embrace the diversity, discover the neighborhoods, and capitalize on all that this extraordinary city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s