Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, this time has allowed me to gain significant insights into life in this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and diversity, but it also provides a multitude of housing options. Students have various alternatives, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, such as ensuite rooms, private studios, shared flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize in-person viewings, while international students can investigate options online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, where they can assess amenities and transportation links.
During my search for accommodation, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. I sought proximity to main attractions, social hubs, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city’s outstanding public transport system — comprising the Underground, buses, and trains — makes commuting relatively straightforward. Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate quickly; daily inter-zonal travel may reach up to £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. That being said, travel cards like the Oyster card provide considerable discounts for students. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend into the outer zones, with fares influenced by distance and operator.
Residing in Central London offers the benefit of closeness to major attractions yet entails elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, significantly reducing our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodation to meet individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups — a goal that can be more challenging when renting privately.
For me, living near grocery stores was essential. Well-known supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are easily accessible, while cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for budget-conscious shoppers. Proximity to essential outlets is especially advantageous during high-demand periods such as exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are integral to its character, offering various neighbourhoods that mirror different cultures. Many international students favor areas that feel familiar. For example, Southall in West London is celebrated for its lively South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. In the West End, Chinatown serves as a bustling center for Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of the many diverse communities throughout the city.
Ultimately, the optimal location to live in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. When searching for a new home here, embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its cultural neighbourhoods, and relish the lively experiences London has to offer.