Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. While it might not sound extensive, it has granted me the opportunity to learn several crucial things. London is a lively and varied city, not only due to its rich communities but also in the range of housing options available. Students are presented with numerous choices, spanning from student accommodations to private rentals, featuring everything from ensuite rooms and studios to shared flats and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize in-person viewings, while international students frequently turn to platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, verify amenities, and evaluate transportation connections.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My goal was to be near major attractions, vibrant social hubs, and, crucially, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric transport zones, with zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central parts. The city boasts a remarkable public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—making travel relatively straightforward. Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate; daily inter-zonal commuting may cost as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than using public transport. That being said, discounted Oyster card options have made traveling more economical for students. In addition to the Tube, services like London Overground and National Rail extend to outer zones, with prices varying depending on distance and the service provider.
Residing in Central London certainly comes with a higher expense, but I was fortunate to be at university alongside a friend. We decided to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with other students from various backgrounds and similar ages—something that can be trickier to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widespread, with wallet-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also available. Living close to essential shops and pharmacies turned out to be a major time-saver, especially during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be quite tricky. The city’s vast cultural diversity is showcased in its many ethnic communities, each presenting a distinctive atmosphere. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that feel relatable. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of London’s many community-oriented neighborhoods.
Ultimately, the ideal place to call home in London hinges on your individual requirements and interests. When on the lookout for a new residence here, immerse yourself in the city’s extraordinary diversity, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill that London presents.