Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient for me to acquire considerable knowledge about residing in this bustling city. London is a lively metropolis, showcasing not only its varied housing choices but also the rich amalgamation of communities that make it their home. For students, numerous accommodation options are available—from student residences to private rentals, ranging from ensuite rooms, studios, shared flats, to house shares.
For home students, scheduling viewings is quite simple. However, international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate amenities, and assess the closeness to public transport connections.
During my hunt for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s major attractions, social venues, and most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The city boasts a comprehensive public transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—facilitating easy mobility. Nonetheless, traveling between zones can accumulate costs, with daily inter-zonal travel reaching as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transit. That said, the student discounts on Oyster cards have significantly reduced commuting expenses.
In addition to the Underground, services such as the London Overground and National Rail extend into outer zones, providing greater coverage. Ticket prices on these services differ based on distance and the pricing model of the operator.
Residing in Central London entails a steep price, but I was lucky to share accommodations with a friend, which alleviated some of the rent burden. I chose intercollegiate student housing because I desired to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and age ranges—an aspect that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops and pharmacies is a tremendous time-saver, especially during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be tough. The city’s multicultural communities greatly contribute to its allure, presenting a vast array of cultural experiences. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward areas that resonate with their native culture. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian population and is lined with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Ultimately, the best area to reside in London is contingent on your personal inclinations and lifestyle. Whether you seek cultural familiarity, convenience, or a vibrant urban experience, London has something to provide. Embrace the diversity, discover the neighborhoods, and take full advantage of everything this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s