Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that might not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient for me to gain substantial insights into residing in this vibrant city. London boasts an abundance of culture and history, alongside a plethora of housing options and lively communities that make the settling-in process a distinct experience—particularly for students.
When discussing accommodation, students have an overwhelming array of choices. Whether you are in search of housing tailored for students or private rentals, there is something available for every taste and financial plan. The options vary from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared apartments and house shares. For local students, arranging a viewing is generally quite simple. Conversely, international students typically depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings digitally, assess amenities, and examine proximity to transport links.
Throughout my own room search, I focused on finding a space in Central London to remain close to the city’s key landmarks, social venues, and, importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is partitioned into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s vast public transport network—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. Nonetheless, travel costs can escalate rapidly, particularly when traversing zones. A single daily inter-zonal commute may cost as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the Tube or bus. However, student Oyster cards greatly help in lowering transportation costs for daily journeys.
In addition to the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the central zones, providing additional connectivity. Fare prices for these services differ based on distance and the operator, yet they represent a suitable choice for those residing further away.
Residing in Central London comes with an elevated cost. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which reduced our rental expenses. I also opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Proximity to necessary shops was another pivotal element in my choice. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified daily tasks considerably. For more economical alternatives, stores such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent. Having these locations nearby proves especially beneficial during hectic times like exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood may prove to be challenging, but London’s cultural variety makes it simpler to discover a place that feels like home. Many international students tend to gravitate toward areas that mirror their own cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Meanwhile, in the core of the West End, Chinatown features a vibrant blend of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to the cultural richness of particular neighbourhoods or the practicality of living close to your university, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the diversity, investigate your choices, and enjoy all that this remarkable city has in store.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s