Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has been sufficient to acquire some significant perspectives on life in this vibrant metropolis. London is not just abundant in culture and history but also provides a diverse range of living arrangements and lively communities. Whether you are a student or a working professional, securing a residence here can be both thrilling and daunting.
For students, the city boasts a multitude of housing choices—spanning from student accommodations and private rentals to shared apartments and studio flats. You can select from ensuite rooms, shared bathrooms, or even entire studio units based on your financial situation and personal tastes. Local students frequently benefit from the option of attending in-person viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to review listings online, evaluate amenities, and consider distance to public transport.
When I was on the lookout for a residence, I concentrated on Central London to remain near Imperial College, major landmarks, and social hubs. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates relatively easy commuting. Nonetheless, daily inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to conserve funds. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly decrease travel expenses. For longer journeys, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground, although fares differ depending on the distance and operator.
Residing in Central London comes with a steeper cost, but I was able to minimize expenses by room-sharing with a friend. We opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, which not only allowed us to save on rent but also provided the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds—something that’s harder to come by in private rentals.
Closeness to essential shops was another crucial aspect for me. Being situated near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified daily tasks significantly. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Having these stores in proximity is particularly beneficial during hectic exam periods when time is scarce.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can pose a challenging choice. The city is a patchwork of ethnic communities, each providing a distinct cultural experience. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror their cultural roots. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a rich variety of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighbourhoods offer newcomers a sense of familiarity and community.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual needs and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural diversity, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London has something to offer everyone. Embrace the city’s intricate mosaic of neighbourhoods, investigate your choices, and maximize your time in this extraordinary metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s