Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days prior, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not appear to be an extensive duration, it’s been ample for me to gather insights about life in this lively metropolis. London boasts an astounding range of housing choices, mirroring the eclectic nature of its communities. Students have a myriad of options just a stone’s throw away, encompassing student accommodations, private rentals, ensuite rooms, individual studios, shared flats, and house shares. For home students, arranging in-person viewings is straightforward, whereas international students can navigate platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse properties online, evaluate amenities, and gauge accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. Proximity to renowned attractions, social hotspots, and, most critically, Imperial College’s campus was my priority. The city is segmented into six surrounding travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the core regions. Due to the city’s outstanding transport infrastructure—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—getting around is quite manageable. However, inter-zone travel can accumulate, costing as much as £5.25 daily. To conserve funds, I often opted to walk shorter routes instead of relying on public transport. Nonetheless, discounted Oyster card options have made commuting to university considerably more economical. In addition to the Underground, the London Overground and National Rail services expand into outer zones, with ticket prices varying based on distance and operator.
Residing in Central London does come at a premium. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental expenses. I went for intercollegiate student housing as I wanted to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be trickier when renting privately.
An additional key consideration for me was the proximity to grocery stores. Major supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are ubiquitous, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Having essential stores within easy reach saves considerable time, particularly during hectic periods like exams.
Choosing the right neighbourhood can prove to be a tough decision. London’s rich cultural diversity is evident in its numerous ethnic communities, each presenting a distinct atmosphere. Many international students gravitate towards areas that feel comforting. For instance, Southall in West London is famed for its lively South Asian community, replete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Over in South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Additionally, Chinatown, situated in the West End, serves as a bustling nexus of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of the diverse community neighbourhoods scattered throughout the city.
Ultimately, the ideal living spot in London hinges on your personal preferences and passions. When embarking on the hunt for a new home here, revel in the city’s diversity, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that London presents.