Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that might not appear to be a long duration, it has certainly been sufficient to gain considerable insights into residing in this vibrant city. London is not only steeped in history and culture but also provides a wide range of housing options and lively communities. Whether you are a native or an overseas student, there are innumerable accommodation alternatives available—from student residences to private leases, including ensuite rooms, shared apartments, studio flats, and house shares.
For domestic students, scheduling viewings is generally uncomplicated. In contrast, international students can take advantage of online resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which enable you to browse properties electronically, evaluate amenities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
When I was looking for a place to stay, I concentrated on Central London. I desired to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s vast public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, daily inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25, so I often opted to walk shorter distances to save on expenses. Thankfully, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly reduce commuting fares. Besides the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend to outer zones, though ticket prices vary by route and operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a higher cost. To keep expenses manageable, I chose to share a room with a university friend, which enabled us to cut down on rent significantly. I also selected intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be challenging to find in private rentals.
Location relative to grocery stores was another crucial aspect of my housing choice. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near key services like supermarkets and pharmacies proves to be extremely convenient, especially during busy times like exams.
Selecting the suitable neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city is a tapestry of ethnic communities, each contributing its unique character to the urban environment. Many international students are drawn to areas that mirror their cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean influences and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling centre for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas are just a few illustrations of the cultural diversity London has to offer.
Ultimately, the ideal location to reside in London is contingent upon your personal tastes and way of life. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, student-focused districts, or quieter residential areas, London has something for everyone. Embrace the variety, explore the different neighbourhoods, and make the most of your experience in this remarkable city.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s