Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it might not sound like a significant duration, it’s been ample time for me to gain some insightful perspectives on life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also in the diverse range of housing options and communities it presents. Whether you are a student or a working professional, there’s something available for everyone—from ensuite and shared accommodations to studio flats and house shares. For local students, scheduling in-person viewings is hassle-free, whereas international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings, assess amenities, and check transit connections online.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. I desired to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and most importantly, Imperial College London. The city is organized into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. London’s public transportation system—consisting of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can be costly, with daily inter-zonal travel fees reaching up to £5.25. To mitigate travel expenses, I often opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. That being said, student discounts on Oyster cards render commuting more budget-friendly. Besides the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services reach outer zones, with ticket prices varying based on distance and train provider.
Living in Central London certainly comes with a hefty price tag. Luckily, I managed to reduce my rent costs by sharing a room with a friend who was also studying at university. We chose intercollegiate student housing, which allowed us to connect with other students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—something that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
The proximity to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are frequently found, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater well to students. Being near essential stores and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during busy times like exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the appropriate neighborhood in London can be daunting, considering the city’s immense size and cultural richness. Numerous international students tend to gravitate towards areas that resonate with their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its large South Asian population and features a variety of Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End serves as a bustling center for Chinese dining, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighborhoods are merely a few illustrations of the numerous cultural enclaves contributing to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual needs and lifestyle. Whether you feel drawn to a particular community, seek affordability, or value closeness to your university, London has a neighborhood that fits your criteria. Embrace the city’s diversity, discover its myriad living arrangements, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s