Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I wrapped up nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not appear extensive, it has provided me the opportunity to discover a lot about the city and its distinct way of life. London is a lively and multicultural metropolis, not just in terms of its inhabitants but also in the range of housing possibilities available. Students here find themselves with ample options, including student accommodations, private rentals, ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio apartments, and house shares.
For local students, arranging apartment viewings is quite simple. Conversely, international students frequently depend on online resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to search for available properties, evaluate amenities, and gauge their distance from public transport.
During my hunt for a place to live, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s primary attractions, vibrant social venues, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is categorized into six travel zones, with zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s comprehensive public transport network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, traveling between zones can accumulate expenses, with daily travel costs reaching as high as £5.25. To conserve money, I often opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards contribute to minimizing commuting expenses.
In addition to the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend to outer zones, enhancing connectivity. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the specific train operator. While residing in Central London is convenient, it also comes with a steeper price. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, which significantly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds. This type of social atmosphere is harder to find in private rentals.
Another important element for me was being situated near grocery stores. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily accessible, while budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is particularly beneficial during hectic times like exam season.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s rich cultural mosaic. Many international students tend to favor areas that mirror their cultural backgrounds. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its thriving South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. At the same time, Chinatown in the West End presents a glimpse of Chinese culture through its eateries, stores, and celebrations. These are just a few examples of the numerous cultural enclaves that contribute to London’s uniqueness.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your personal tastes and lifestyle requirements. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, convenience, or affordability, London offers a little something for everyone. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its neighbourhoods, and maximize your experience in this remarkable city.