By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extensive period, these months have provided me with a wealth of insights about life in this vibrant city. London is not just abundant in its diverse housing options but also in the lively communities that inhabit it. Students have a plethora of choices available, ranging from student accommodation to private rentals, featuring options like ensuite rooms, private studios, shared flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange face-to-face viewings, while international students can browse listings online through platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which also offer information about amenities and transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on acquiring a room in Central London. My goal was to be near major attractions, social venues, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the central regions. Thanks to the city’s superb transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—navigating is relatively straightforward. However, traveling between zones can become costly, amounting to as much as £5.25 per day. To save on expenses, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards render commuting more budget-friendly. Apart from the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services stretch into outer zones, with fares dependent on distance and operator.
Living in Central London does entail a steeper price, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation as I desired to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and age groups—an aspect that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
An additional key consideration for me was the closeness to grocery stores. Being near supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op—or budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland—greatly simplifies everyday errands, particularly during hectic exam periods. Having essential shops close by alleviates both time and stress.
Picking the right neighbourhood is one of the most challenging choices when relocating to London. The city’s rich tapestry of ethnic communities significantly contributes to its identity, providing a diverse cultural experience. Many international students look for areas that evoke familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its vibrant South Asian community, filled with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing outlets. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. In contrast, Chinatown in the West End serves as a lively hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of the many lively communities scattered throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal living space in London is contingent upon your personal preferences and interests. As you search for your new home, embrace the diversity and opportunities that London presents. Discover its cultural enclaves, relish the conveniences of urban living, and maximize the experiences that this remarkable city offers.