Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a significant duration, it has been ample time for me to gain valuable insights on navigating this vibrant city. London is renowned not only for its extensive selection of housing options but also for the rich tapestry of communities that reside within it. For students, options abound—whether you’re in search of student accommodation or private rentals, you’ll discover everything from ensuite rooms and studio apartments to shared flats and house shares. Local students can easily schedule in-person viewings, while those from abroad can browse options online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites offer comprehensive details about available properties, amenities, and closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to live, I concentrated on Central London. I aspired to be near key attractions, popular social spots, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College London. The city is divided into six transport zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the heart of it all. The public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, travelling between zones can become pricey, with daily expenses soaring up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards have made commuting to university more economical. Apart from the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, although fares differ based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London is costly, but I was lucky to have a friend attending the same university. We made the decision to share a room, which provided us a significant reduction in rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation as I wanted to engage with people from various backgrounds and connect with peers—an opportunity that’s often less available in private rentals.
One of my key considerations was living near grocery stores. Having supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op in proximity greatly facilitated daily tasks. For more budget-conscious options, stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Being close to essential services such as supermarkets and pharmacies is especially advantageous during peak periods like exam season.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can prove to be a challenge. The city’s multicultural character is mirrored in its numerous ethnic enclaves, each providing a distinctive cultural experience. For example, Southall in West London is well-known for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music environment. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End showcases a diverse range of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods offer a sense of belonging and community for many international students.
Ultimately, the ideal living situation in London is contingent on your individual preferences and way of life. Whether you’re attracted to cultural communities, seeking convenience, or aiming to stick to a budget, London caters to all. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its neighborhoods, and relish in all the excitement and opportunities this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s