Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It’s been nine months since I relocated to London, and while that might not appear to be an extensive period, it’s been ample time for me to acquire some valuable perspectives on life in this lively city. London is an energetic metropolis, not only in terms of its varied housing options but also in the plethora of communities that make it their home. Whether you are a resident or an international student, there are numerous housing choices available—varying from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses.
For domestic students, scheduling apartment viewings is quite uncomplicated. In contrast, international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate housing options online. These websites furnish comprehensive details about amenities, pricing, and closeness to public transport, facilitating the search process from overseas.
During my search for a place to live, I concentrated on Central London. I sought to be near the city’s key attractions, social hotspots, and most importantly, Imperial College London. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The public transport system of the city—comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—renders navigation easy. Nonetheless, daily inter-zonal travel can be costly, reaching up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards considerably lessen commuting expenses.
Apart from the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond central London. Ticket prices on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of the train operator. Although residing centrally entails higher rent, I was privileged to share a room with a friend, which alleviated costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Convenience was another priority for me. Living near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op simplified daily errands significantly. For more wallet-friendly alternatives, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies is especially beneficial during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s cultural richness. Numerous international students gravitate toward areas that mirror their cultural roots. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, providing Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural events. These are just a handful of examples showcasing London’s diverse cultural enclaves.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London depends on your individual preferences and interests. Whether you’re attracted to the cultural vibrancy of a certain neighborhood or the practicality of being close to campus, London offers something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous communities, and maximize your experience in this remarkable place.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s