Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I reached the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although that may not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient to gather some important perspectives. London is a lively and diverse city, providing a myriad of housing options and vibrant communities. Whether you’re an academic or a working individual, there are numerous accommodation alternatives available—from ensuite and shared bathrooms to studio apartments and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, while those from abroad can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, assess amenities, and verify proximity to public transit.
In my quest for a place to stay, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My goal was to be near the city’s primary attractions, social hubs, and most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the core areas. London’s transit system—which encompasses the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—is comprehensive and facilitates easy movement across zones. However, traveling between zones can be expensive, with daily costs reaching as high as £5.25. To economize, I frequently chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts and Oyster card options do significantly ease commuting expenses. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, though fares vary based on the route and provider.
Residing in Central London carries a hefty price tag, but I was fortunate to attend university alongside a friend. We decided to share a room, which enabled us to lower our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that’s more challenging to achieve in private rentals.
The proximity to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while budget-friendly retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic periods like exam time.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that resonate with their own cultural heritages. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its significant South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are just several illustrations of the rich cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s unique character.
In the end, the perfect place to reside in London hinges on your personal likes and priorities. Whether you feel drawn to cultural communities, aim to be near your university, or seek affordable rents, London has much to offer. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its various neighbourhoods, and relish everything this extraordinary city provides.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s