By Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it may not appear to be an extended period, it has granted me the opportunity to gain considerable insight into the life of this dynamic city. London’s vibrant communities are not only diverse but also provide numerous housing options for students. Whether you seek student accommodations or private rentals, choices abound, including ensuite rooms, private studios, shared apartments, and house shares. Local students can arrange viewings in person effortlessly, while international students can browse listings online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, which also offer details on amenities and transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My goal was to remain close to significant landmarks, social hubs, and, crucially, Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The efficient transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—makes navigation fairly straightforward. However, travel expenses can accumulate swiftly; daily inter-zonal fares may reach up to £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. That said, discounted Oyster card options have considerably lessened commuting costs. In addition to the Underground, London Overground and National Rail services extend to outer zones, with ticket prices varying based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London offers advantages but also entails elevated living expenses. To mitigate costs, I shared a room with a friend, significantly decreasing our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that is more challenging with private rentals.
The accessibility of grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while economical choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living in proximity to essential shops and pharmacies proved especially advantageous during hectic exam periods when time was constrained.
Choosing an appropriate neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s extensive cultural diversity is manifested in its various ethnic communities. Many international students gravitate toward areas that evoke a sense of familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London boasts a thriving South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a bustling center of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of the culturally vibrant neighbourhoods throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London hinges on your individual requirements and preferences. As you embark on the search for your new home here, immerse yourself in the city’s diversity, explore its distinctive communities, and relish all that this magnificent city has to offer.