Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Nine months ago, I relocated to London to embark on my postgraduate journey, and while that may not appear to be a lengthy duration, I have acquired significant insights into life within this vibrant metropolis. London is abundant in history and culture, also providing a plethora of housing choices and lively communities that create a distinctive living environment—particularly for students.
Regarding accommodation, students find themselves with numerous options. Ranging from student residences to private rentals, choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms along with studio flats and house shares. For local students, arranging viewings is fairly uncomplicated. International students, however, can take advantage of platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, assess amenities, and verify distances to public transport.
In my personal quest, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My desire was to remain near prominent landmarks, social venues, and most critically, the Imperial College campus. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 representing the heart of the city. The extensive transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates convenient travel. Nevertheless, daily inter-zone fares can reach up to £5.25, prompting me to often walk shorter routes to conserve funds. The Oyster card has proven invaluable, offering discounted rates for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground, encompassing outer zones with varied fare systems based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London might come with a hefty price tag, but I was fortunate to have a roommate, which considerably lessened our rental expenses. I chose intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages—something that can often be more challenging in the private rental market.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration in my choice. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland aid in keeping living expenses under control. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is particularly advantageous during hectic exam seasons.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood is one of the most daunting challenges faced when moving to London. The city’s multicultural areas are a salient feature, providing a sense of belonging for many international students. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel outlets. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music atmosphere. In the same vein, Chinatown in the West End showcases a diverse range of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighborhoods exemplify the cultural richness that makes London exceptionally appealing.
In conclusion, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on individual preferences and lifestyles. Whether you are attracted to cultural hubs, student cohorts, or central areas, the city caters to a broad spectrum of tastes. Embrace the diversity, investigate your choices, and capitalize on your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s