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 sound extensive, it has provided me with ample opportunity to gain insights about life in this vibrant city. London boasts not only a wealth of culture and history but also an impressive array of housing choices and lively communities. Be it a student in search of university accommodation or someone considering private rentals, there’s a plethora of options available—from ensuite rooms and studios to shared flats and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange for in-person viewings, whereas international students can take advantage of platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and gauge their closeness to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I concentrated on Central London. My aim was to be near key attractions, social hubs, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. The city is organized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 representing the most central areas. Thanks to the comprehensive public transportation system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—navigating the city is fairly straightforward. That said, commuting between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily, prompting me to frequently walk shorter distances to economize. The Oyster card has significantly assisted in reducing travel costs for students. Beyond the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, although fares differ based on distance and the service provider.
Living in Central London often comes with elevated expenses; however, I was lucky to have a friend studying alongside me. We chose to share a room, which allowed us to lower our rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation with the hope of connecting with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets—a social mix that can be harder to locate in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another pivotal factor in my housing choice. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is incredibly convenient, especially during exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be quite a task, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students look for areas that echo the culture and comforts of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its vibrant South Asian presence, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and apparel shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End presents an extensive selection of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods are merely a few examples of the cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the most suitable place to reside in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or affordability, London certainly has something to provide. Embrace the variety, explore your choices, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s