Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while this may not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has provided me ample opportunity to gain insights into residing in this vibrant city. London showcases remarkable diversity—not merely concerning its inhabitants and culture, but also regarding housing choices. Students in this city are truly fortunate, facing an extensive range of accommodation types, such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses.
For local students, arranging a property viewing is comparatively simple. In contrast, international students frequently depend on online real estate platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to examine available properties, contrast amenities, and assess proximity to public transportation options.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. My goal was to remain close to the city’s primary attractions, vibrant social scenes, and most critically, Imperial College London. London is organized into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transportation network—encompassing the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy travel. However, daily commuting between zones may cost as much as £5.25, leading me to often walk shorter distances to economize. Nevertheless, discounted Oyster card options for students render commuting more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, providing access to more remote areas, although ticket prices vary based on the journey and service provider.
Residing in Central London entails a steeper price, but I managed to lower expenses by sharing a room with a friend. We selected intercollegiate student accommodation, which not only resulted in rent savings but also allowed us to connect with other students from varying backgrounds and similar age groups—an opportunity that is less common in privately rented accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was another key factor for me. Living near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op—or budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland—simplifies daily errands, particularly during hectic exam periods. Having pharmacies and other essential services nearby is also an enormous advantage.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that resonate with their cultural roots. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a glimpse into Chinese culture through its restaurants, shops, and festivities. These are merely a few instances of the myriad cultural hubs that contribute to London’s distinctiveness.
In the end, the optimal location to reside in London hinges on your individual tastes and lifestyle. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, closeness to your university, or reasonable rent, London caters to all preferences. Embrace the city’s diversity, navigate its numerous neighborhoods, and relish everything this remarkable place has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London Life, master’s