Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that duration may not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired some invaluable perspectives on residing in this vibrant city. London boasts remarkable diversity—not only in its populace but also in the range of housing options available. Whether you’re a student or a professional, there’s something to cater to everyone’s needs. From ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared accommodations and private lettings, the options are plentiful. For home students, arranging viewings is relatively easy, while international students can utilize online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate listings, check amenities, and evaluate transportation connections.
During my search for housing, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near major attractions, lively social areas, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transport network—which includes the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates commuting across zones. Nonetheless, daily travel between zones can amount to as much as £5.25, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to save on costs. Fortunately, student discounts on Oyster cards help make commuting more economical. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services reach the outer zones, although fares differ by distance and provider.
Residing centrally does involve a higher cost. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. We decided to opt for intercollegiate student housing, enabling us to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and universities—a connection that’s more challenging in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial element in my housing choice. Chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely present, while budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland help keep grocery expenses manageable. Being near supermarkets and pharmacies proves especially advantageous during peak times like exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood can be daunting, particularly in a city as culturally vibrant as London. Numerous international students are drawn to areas that mirror their cultural heritages. For example, Southall in West London is famous for its lively South Asian community, offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese culinary delights, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods not only offer a sense of belonging but also enrich London’s multicultural landscape.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are attracted to cultural enclaves, closeness to your university, or economical living, London has much to provide. Embrace the diversity, explore various neighborhoods, and take full advantage of all that this remarkable city has to present.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s