Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While that might not appear to be an extended duration, it’s been sufficient to gain considerable insights into life within this energetic city. London stands as a bustling metropolis, not just because of its extensive range of housing choices but also due to the varied communities that reside here. Students, in particular, have an abundance of options when it comes to housing. From student halls to private rentals, offerings range from ensuite and shared facilities to individual rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Local students can easily arrange for in-person viewings, while international students can leverage platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate amenities, and consider access to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My objective was to be near major landmarks, vibrant social scenes, and most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 constituting the heart of the city. Thanks to its comprehensive public transport system—including the Tube, buses, and rail services—navigating the city is quite manageable. However, traveling between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 per day, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to save on expenses. The Oyster card has proved to be incredibly useful, providing discounted fares for students traveling to university. Beyond the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail service the outer zones, with ticket prices varying based on distance and the operator.
Residing in Central London does come with a higher cost, but I was lucky enough to share a room with a friend from my studies, which significantly lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation because I wanted to connect with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be harder to come by in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland help keep expenses manageable. Being near essential stores and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic exam seasons when every minute counts.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s diverse multicultural communities are a standout characteristic of the city, each presenting a distinctive vibe. Numerous international students look for areas that mirror the culture of their native countries. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian population and boasts an array of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers a rich selection of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of the many lively cultural hubs scattered throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you seek cultural resonance, convenience, or affordability, London has a wealth of offerings. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its neighbourhoods, and take full advantage of the amazing opportunities that living in London presents.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s