Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days back, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While it may not seem extensive, it has provided me with ample opportunities to gain insights into life in this lively city. London is celebrated not just for its varied living arrangements but also for the energetic communities that reside here. Whether you are a student or a working professional, there exists a broad spectrum of housing options—from student residences and private rentals to shared apartments and studio flats.
For students, the range of accommodation is vast. You can select from ensuite rooms, shared living spaces, studios, or even house shares. While local students can easily arrange in-person visits, international students can turn to websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, examine facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. My aim was to be near the city’s key attractions, social hubs, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most centralized. The city’s public transportation system—encompassing the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates commuting between zones with relative ease. However, travel expenses can accumulate swiftly. For example, daily travel across zones can amount to as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lower commuting expenses. In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend into outer zones, with fares varying based on the provider and distance.
Residing in Central London certainly has a steeper cost attached, but I managed to reduce expenses by sharing a room with a university friend. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which offered us the chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—an opportunity that’s tougher to encounter in private rentals.
Being near essential shops was also a key consideration for me. Having supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op in proximity made daily tasks more manageable. For more economical alternatives, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent. Their closeness is particularly beneficial during hectic times such as exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting since each area has its distinctive vibe. The city’s multicultural essence is mirrored in its neighborhoods. Many international students tend to settle in areas that evoke a sense of familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London is known for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a hub of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of the myriad of lively communities throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal living space in London hinges on your personal preferences and way of life. Whether you are attracted to cultural richness, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London has an abundance to offer. Embrace the city’s diverse array of neighbourhoods, investigate your choices, and relish all that this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s