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 a significant duration, it has provided me with valuable perspectives on living in this vibrant city. London boasts a wealth of culture and history, along with an abundance of accommodation choices and lively communities that render it a remarkable place for residency—particularly for students.
Students in London benefit from a wide array of housing alternatives, ranging from student halls to private rentals. Whether you’re in search of ensuite rooms, studios, shared flats, or house shares, there’s something to meet every taste and budget. Domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students can browse properties online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites also offer helpful information about amenities and access to public transportation.
During my search for a living space, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s main attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s vast public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy movement around. Nonetheless, commuting costs can accumulate, especially when traveling between zones. A daily inter-zonal journey can run up to £5.25, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances to cut expenses. That said, student discounts on Oyster cards contribute to making travel more economical. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, although fares differ based on distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London entails a steeper cost, but I was fortunate to be studying with a friend. We decided to share a room, significantly decreasing our rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing because I wanted to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and age groups—something more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having crucial services nearby was another priority for me. Being close to grocery outlets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily living more manageable. For more budget-conscious options, I often shopped at Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The convenience of these stores was especially beneficial during hectic exam periods when time was scarce.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s remarkable diversity. Many international students look for areas that mirror the culture and comforts of home. For instance, Southall in West London is recognized for its substantial South Asian community and features a variety of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling hub of Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These areas are merely a few examples of the rich cultural enclaves that London presents.
In the end, the ideal spot to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural communities, nearness to your university, or convenient access to public transport, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its numerous neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary location.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s