Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although that may appear to be a brief period, it has been sufficient for me to gather some valuable insights. London is an ever-changing metropolis, not only due to its diverse selection of housing but also because of the lively communities that reside within it. Here, students have a plethora of housing options available. From student accommodations to private rentals, choices include ensuite and shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms, studios, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange for in-person viewings, while international students can browse online listings via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, reviewing amenities and transport connections prior to making a decision.
During my search for accommodations, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. I desired to be near the city’s key attractions, social venues, and, importantly, Imperial College’s campus. London is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. Thanks to the city’s outstanding transportation network—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—navigating is fairly simple. However, travel expenses can accumulate, with inter-zone trips costing up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing public transport. Nonetheless, discounted Oyster card options have made traveling to university considerably more economical. In addition to the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend to larger areas, with fares differing based on distance and the operator’s pricing scheme.
Residing in Central London presents advantages, yet it also entails elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I decided on intercollegiate student housing because I was keen to meet individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Another crucial consideration for me was the closeness to grocery stores. Having supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op close by made daily living much more manageable. For more economical choices, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland serve as excellent alternatives. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies is vital, especially during hectic exam periods when time is at a premium.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s rich cultural mosaic is represented in its numerous ethnic communities. Many international students gravitate towards areas reminiscent of their homeland. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, offering an array of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent only a few of the many lively community neighborhoods throughout the city.
In conclusion, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in this city, embrace its diversity, explore its cultural enclaves, and make the most of everything this remarkable city has to offer.