Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not appear to be a lengthy duration, it has provided me ample opportunity to acquire a wealth of knowledge about living in this dynamic city. London boasts a rich diversity in its communities and presents a myriad of accommodation choices. Students are faced with numerous options right at their fingertips—from university accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule in-person viewings, while international students typically depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to uncover potential homes online, review facilities, and evaluate access to public transportation links.
During my hunt for accommodation, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. My goal was to remain close to the iconic landmarks, social hubs, and, crucially, the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. Thanks to London’s superb transport network—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—navigating the city is fairly straightforward. Nevertheless, I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as commuting between zones could set someone back by up to £5.25 daily. I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than take the tube or bus. On that note, Oyster cards provide reduced fares, making travel more budget-friendly for students. Besides the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail reach to outer zones, with ticket prices varying based on distance and operator regulations. Living in the city center does entail higher rental costs, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to save considerably. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds—a diversity that’s often less prevalent in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was also a significant consideration for me. Key supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while more economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies proved essential, especially during hectic exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are an integral part of its cultural fabric, providing a rich assortment of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students prefer areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its lively Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of the West End, serves as a bustling center teeming with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of the community-rich areas scattered throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal place to call home in London relies heavily on your personal preferences and interests. As you embark on your search for accommodation here, embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its cultural hubs, and fully explore the convenience and vibrancy that London offers.