Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear to be a long duration, it has provided me with significant insights. London is an energetic and varied city, not just regarding its population but also concerning the range of housing options accessible. Whether you are a student or a working individual, there’s something available for everyone—spanning from ensuite and shared bathrooms to private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. For domestic students, organizing viewings is quite simple, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
During my search for a residence, I concentrated on Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, social venues, and crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. The public transportation system—consisting of the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy commuting across these zones. However, traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day, so I frequently chose to walk shorter distances to cut costs. The Oyster card has also been a tremendous aid in lowering daily travel expenses. In addition to the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach outer zones, though fares differ based on distance and the train operator.
Residing in Central London entails a significant cost. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to share a room with a friend, substantially lowering our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation, aiming to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets—something that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
The closeness to grocery shops was another critical element in my decision-making process. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living near essential shops and pharmacies proves especially convenient during hectic periods like exam season.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting given the city’s remarkable cultural diversity. Numerous international students tend to gravitate toward regions that reflect their heritage. For example, Southall in West London is recognized for its lively South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Simultaneously, Chinatown in the West End presents a rich selection of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of the myriad community-oriented neighbourhoods spread throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent on your individual preferences and lifestyle. Whether you’re attracted to cultural enclaves, student-centric areas, or central spots, London provides a plethora of options. Embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this extraordinary metropolis.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorized
Tagged: accommodation, housing, London life, master’s