Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a short while ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While that might not appear to be a long duration, it has been ample time to acquire some meaningful perspectives on life in this vibrant metropolis. London boasts not only a wealth of culture and history but also an extensive array of housing options and lively communities. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, there’s something available for everyone—from ensuite rooms and studio apartments to shared flats and private rentals.
Students, in particular, have a multitude of accommodation options at their disposal. University accommodation and private rentals each provide a selection of choices to cater to various needs and financial situations. Home students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students can browse properties online using platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive listings, detailing amenities and closeness to public transport, which is crucial for navigating a city as expansive as London.
During my housing search, I concentrated on Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is organized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy navigation. Nevertheless, travel between zones can accumulate costs, with daily inter-zone fares going up to £5.25. To save on expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nonetheless, student Oyster cards do provide discounted fares, which significantly aid in reducing commuting expenses.
Beyond the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services link the outer zones and suburbs, offering even more commuting alternatives. However, fare systems may differ based on the operator and distance traveled. While Central London is fantastically convenient, it also comes with a higher cost of living. To manage my finances, I chose to share a room with a friend, thereby reducing our rent. I also decided upon intercollegiate student accommodation, with the aim of connecting with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Convenience was another critical aspect of my housing choice. Being situated near grocery stores was essential. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Proximity to essential stores and pharmacies made running errands considerably easier, especially during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting due to the city’s vastness and variety. London’s multicultural communities represent one of its finest attributes, providing a sense of comfort for international students. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End stands out as a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods offer a reassuring sense of home for many newcomers.
In the end, the most suitable place to live in London hinges on your individual preferences and priorities. Whether you gravitate toward cultural hubs, closeness to your university, or affordable alternatives, London has something to present. Embrace the diversity, investigate the city’s numerous neighbourhoods, and fully experience your time in this magnificent metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s