By Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While it may not appear to be an extensive period, I have gathered a wealth of insights about living in this dynamic city. London is abundant in culture and diversity and provides a broad range of housing choices. Students can find accommodations that cater to their preferences, from student residences to private rentals. The available options include ensuite rooms, private studios, shared flats, and house shares. Local students often benefit from the ability to attend viewings in person, whereas international students can explore listings online through platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom, assessing amenities and public transport links remotely.
During my hunt for living arrangements, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Proximity to key attractions, social venues, and, importantly, Imperial College’s campus was fundamental to my decision. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The city boasts an efficient transport system—including the Underground (the Tube), buses, and trains—making navigation relatively straightforward. Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate; daily inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25. To be economical, I often opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize public transport. Nonetheless, discounted Oyster card rates have significantly reduced commuting expenses to university. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond Central London, with fees fluctuating based on distance and service provider.
Residing in Central London does carry a premium. Luckily, I was able to share a room with a friend, which considerably alleviated our rental expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups—a goal that can be more difficult in private housing.
Another essential factor for me was proximity to grocery stores. Having supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op in the vicinity simplified daily errands. For more cost-effective alternatives, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent choices. Being near essential retailers and pharmacies is particularly helpful during hectic periods, such as exam time.
Selecting the appropriate neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s exceptional cultural diversity is evidenced by its numerous ethnic communities, each providing a distinct environment. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke memories of home. For example, Southall in West London is renowned for its significant South Asian community, with an abundance of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music culture. At the same time, Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, features a lively array of Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. These are merely a few examples of the city’s varied neighbourhoods.
Ultimately, the ideal place to reside in London is contingent upon your individual needs and preferences. When searching for a new home here, embrace the city’s diversity, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish everything this remarkable city provides.