Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although it may not seem prolonged, this time has provided me with valuable insights into the lifestyle of this dynamic city. London is notable not only for its extensive range of housing alternatives but also for its varied communities that reside here. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Whether in search of student accommodation or private rentals, one can discover everything from ensuite rooms and independent studios to shared flats and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule in-person viewings, while international students have the ability to explore choices online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which also furnish information regarding amenities and transportation links.
During my hunt for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My goal was to stay near the city’s main attractions, vibrant social scenes, and, crucially, the Imperial College campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 comprising the city’s center. With an efficient public transportation system, including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains, traversing the city is fairly convenient. Nonetheless, transportation expenses can accumulate; traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. That being said, reduced Oyster card alternatives have enhanced the affordability of commuting to university. In addition to the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend outward into peripheral zones, with fares fluctuating based on distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London does come with a steep cost; however, I was lucky to share a room with a friend, allowing us to significantly reduce rental expenses. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation in hopes of connecting with other students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges — an opportunity that would have been more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery outlets was another crucial consideration for me. Prominent supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Living near essential shops and pharmacies simplified daily tasks, especially during hectic exam times.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can prove challenging. The city’s vast cultural diversity is mirrored in its various ethnic communities. Numerous international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For instance, Southall in West London is famous for its lively South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music atmosphere. Concurrently, Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, serves as a bustling center of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a few of the numerous lively communities throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal residing spot in London hinges on individual preferences and interests. When looking for a new home here, embrace the city’s diversity, discover its culturally rich neighborhoods, and savor everything this remarkable city has to offer.