Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has been nine months since I settled in London, and while that might not appear to be a lengthy period, I have gained considerable insights into residing in this vibrant city. London is famous not only for its extensive history and iconic landmarks but also for the variety within its communities and the broad selection of housing options accessible to students.
Whether you are a resident or an overseas student, securing a place to stay in London can be both thrilling and daunting. The city provides everything, from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private and communal rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule in-person viewings, whereas international students can depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, examine amenities, and evaluate distance to public transportation.
At the outset of my search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London to be near Imperial College, key attractions, and social venues. London is organized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transport network, which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, facilitates relatively easy navigation. However, travel expenses can accumulate, particularly when traversing zones. A daily inter-zonal ticket can be as high as £5.25. To cut costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. For longer trips, discounted Oyster card options for students helped lessen commuting costs.
The transport network in London goes beyond the Tube, with the London Overground and National Rail services extending into areas outside the central zones. Fares on these services differ based on distance and the pricing framework of the train operator.
Living in Central London comes with a steeper price, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which substantially lowered our rent. I went for intercollegiate student housing as I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges—something harder to achieve in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another crucial factor for me. Being near supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op made daily tasks more manageable. For budget-conscious alternatives, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices. Having essential shops close by is particularly beneficial during busy periods like exam time.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be a complicated task. The city is a tapestry of cultural communities, each presenting a distinct vibe. Many international students seek out areas that mirror their own cultural heritages. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its bustling South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End offers an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These neighbourhoods create a sense of familiarity and community for newcomers.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual requirements and preferences. Whether you’re in pursuit of cultural engagement, convenience, or cost-effectiveness, London has plenty to offer. Embrace the city’s diversity, investigate its neighbourhoods, and relish the amazing experience of living in one of the world’s most stimulating cities.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s