Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a significant duration, I have gleaned much about living in this dynamic city. London is not just varied in its communities but also presents a broad spectrum of housing possibilities. Students can choose from numerous options, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, private studios, shared flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while international students can investigate options online using platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which offer insights into amenities and transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I concentrated on locating a room in Central London. I desired to be near key attractions, social scenes, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is categorized into six concentric transport zones, where Zones 1 and 2 encompass the central areas. Thanks to the city’s superb transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—navigating is relatively straightforward. Nonetheless, to cut back on travel expenses (which can reach up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys), I frequently opted to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly ease commuting costs. Aside from the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the central zones, with fares fluctuating based on distance and the pricing structure of train operators.
Residing in Central London entails a considerable cost of living. Luckily, I managed to share a room with a friend, allowing us to substantially reduce our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is often challenging to find in private rentals.
Accessibility to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Well-known supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are commonly found, while more affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops and pharmacies conserves a lot of time, especially during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the ideal area in London can be daunting. The city’s varied ethnic communities are integral to its cultural essence, providing a plethora of neighborhoods to discover. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas reminiscent of their homelands. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Concurrently, Chinatown in the West End presents a vibrant environment rich with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are but a few instances of the many culturally diverse areas throughout the city.
Ultimately, the best location to inhabit in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. As you seek your new home, embrace the city’s diversity, immerse yourself in its cultural neighborhoods, and relish all that this remarkable city offers.