Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may appear to be a brief period, I have managed to gain significant insights into life within this dynamic city. London boasts not only an extensive cultural and diverse atmosphere but also a plethora of housing options. Students are presented with numerous alternatives, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite rooms, shared flats, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students have the option to browse online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, where they can assess amenities and proximity to public transport connections.
During my hunt for a residence, my main focus was acquiring a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, lively social spots, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the closest to the center. Thanks to the city’s superb transit system — comprising the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains — navigating the area is fairly straightforward. Nevertheless, to reduce travel expenses (inter-zonal commuting can reach up to £5.25 daily), I preferred walking short distances rather than depending on public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards significantly lessen commuting costs. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, linking outer zones to the central city, although fares vary based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London entails higher living expenses, yet I succeeded in lowering my rent by sharing a room with a friend who was also enrolled in university. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation with the intention of connecting with individuals from varying backgrounds and similar ages — a quality that can be more challenging to discover in private rentals.
One of my key considerations was being near grocery stores. Prominent supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are plentiful, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are perfect for students aiming to economize. Proximity to essential shops and pharmacies proved especially advantageous during hectic times, such as exam periods.
Selecting the perfect neighbourhood in London can be quite a task. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, presenting an array of neighbourhoods to discover. A number of international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of their home. For instance, Southall in West London is celebrated for its vibrant South Asian community, replete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. In contrast, Chinatown, situated in the heart of the West End, showcases an assortment of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a handful of the many community-rich locales in London.
Ultimately, the optimal place to reside in London hinges on your individual preferences and necessities. When embarking on your search for a new home here, take the opportunity to delve into the city’s diversity, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish the remarkable experiences that London has in store.