Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days back, I marked the completion of nine months living in London. While this may not appear to be an extensive period, it has granted me numerous valuable perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London demonstrates an impressive variety not only in its housing options but also among the communities residing within. For students, there’s an abundance of housing selections—ranging from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly organize in-person viewings, while international students can investigate options online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These sites supply comprehensive details about amenities and proximity to public transport, simplifying the search process.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to position myself near the city’s major attractions, social hubs, and most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is categorized into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, inter-zonal travel can be costly, with expenses reaching up to £5.25 per day. To save on costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transportation. Nevertheless, the Oyster card has proven to be a substantial advantage in minimizing commuting expenses. Beyond the Underground, services such as London Overground and National Rail extend to outer zones, although ticket prices fluctuate based on the distance and train operator.
Residing in Central London indeed comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, I managed to share a room with a university friend, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being nearby essential stores and pharmacies is a genuine time-saver, especially during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s cultural richness and diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that echo their cultural origins. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End is a lively center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These neighborhoods provide a sense of connection and community for newcomers.
Ultimately, the ideal living situation in London relies on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, student-friendly sections, or central locales, London presents an extensive array of living choices. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its various neighborhoods, and fully engage with everything this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s