Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and although that might not appear to be an extended period, it has been sufficient to gain considerable insight into life in this bustling city. London is renowned not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for its rich and lively communities. Whether you are a resident or an international student, there is an abundance of housing alternatives—from ensuite rooms and studio flats to shared apartments and private rentals. For home students, scheduling viewings is generally quite easy, whereas international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to examine listings online, compare facilities, and assess closeness to public transportation.
When I initiated my hunt for accommodation, my focus was on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key landmarks, social hubs, and most crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is organized into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s public transport network—which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—is vast and efficient, simplifying commuting. Nonetheless, traveling across zones can be expensive, with daily inter-zonal fares reaching up to £5.25. To cut costs, I frequently chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. That being said, discounted travel methods such as the Oyster card have made commuting more budget-friendly for students. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube system, providing access to outer zones, although fares vary by operator and distance.
Living in Central London does entail a higher cost, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. We opted for intercollegiate student housing, allowing us to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—a feature that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Close proximity to grocery stores was another crucial element for me. Major supermarket brands such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland deliver excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies proved especially convenient during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s cultural abundance and variety. Many international students look for areas that mirror the cultures of their home countries. For instance, Southall in West London is known for its significant South Asian population, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End boasts a lively environment with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few representations of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and interests. Whether you are attracted to the cultural dynamism of a certain neighbourhood or the practicality of being near campus, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its numerous housing possibilities, and relish all that this amazing place has to offer.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s