Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days back, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extended period, it has granted me ample opportunity to gain insights into life in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history while providing a diverse range of living options and lively communities. For students, the selection of accommodations is vast—spanning student residences to private lettings, including ensuite rooms, studio flats, shared apartments, and house shares. Local students can easily organize in-person viewings, while international students can depend on sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to examine available properties, evaluate amenities, and determine proximity to public transport.
As I initiated my search for housing, I targeted finding a room in Central London. My goal was to be near key tourist sites, social hubs, and notably, Imperial College’s campus. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can incur significant costs, with daily inter-zonal fares reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards have made commuting considerably more budget-friendly. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to outer zones, although fares differ based on distance and the specific train operator.
Residing in Central London comes with its advantages, though it also brings elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a fellow student, which greatly alleviated our rent burden. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation in hopes of connecting with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be tougher to find in private rentals.
Convenience was another crucial aspect in determining my living location. Proximity to grocery stores like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily tasks simpler. For more economical choices, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Living near essential amenities such as supermarkets and pharmacies proved particularly advantageous during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s vast and varied landscape. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its character, each providing a distinct cultural experience. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Conversely, Chinatown in the West End showcases a lively blend of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods offer a sense of belonging and community for numerous international students.
In the end, the optimal living arrangement in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, closeness to your university, or convenient transport links, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its numerous neighbourhoods, and make the most of your time in this remarkable metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s