Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days back, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although that may not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire some insightful perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in history and culture, but also offers a diverse range of living arrangements and communities. Whether you are a student or a working professional, there’s something to suit everyone’s needs—from student residences to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, studio flats, shared apartments, and beyond. Home students can conveniently organize in-person viewings, while international students have the option to browse online through platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites provide comprehensive details on amenities, pricing, and distance to public transport.
During my search for housing, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near major landmarks, social hubs, and most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is organized into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most centrally located. London’s public transport system—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement. However, daily inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk short distances to economize. That said, student Oyster cards significantly cut travel expenses. The London Overground and National Rail services also reach beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the city center, with fares varying based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London does come with a hefty price tag, but I was lucky to have a friend studying with me, and we chose to share a room. This decision allowed us to save substantially on rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation with the intention of meeting individuals from various backgrounds and of similar ages—something more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
One of my primary considerations was living near grocery stores. Being close to supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op significantly simplified everyday tasks. For more economical options, stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland were excellent choices. Proximity to essential services like pharmacies and grocery stores becomes particularly crucial during hectic periods like exam season.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s expansive and varied landscape. London’s multicultural communities are essential to its identity, providing a sense of comfort for international students. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods offer more than just accommodation—they create a feeling of belonging.
Ultimately, the ideal area to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you are attracted to cultural neighborhoods, wish to be near your university, or aim to minimize rent and travel costs, London caters to all. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its myriad living arrangements, and relish everything this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s