Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, it has provided me with valuable insights into life in the city. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by diverse housing options but also by the lively communities that inhabit it. Students have numerous choices available — ranging from student residences to private rentals — including ensuite rooms, private studios, shared apartments, and house shares. Home students can conveniently organize in-person viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore listings online, review amenities, and evaluate transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. Proximity to the city’s key attractions, vibrant social scenes, and, most critically, Imperial’s campus was essential for me. London features six concentric travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. Thanks to the city’s superb public transport network — which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains — traveling around is relatively straightforward. Nevertheless, travel expenses can accumulate quickly; daily journeys across zones may cost as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently walked shorter distances rather than using public transport. Fortunately, student discounts on Oyster cards have significantly lowered commuting costs to the university. Beyond the Tube, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the central zones, with fares varying based on distance and the respective train operator.
Residing in Central London does entail a higher expense, but I managed to reduce costs by sharing a room with a fellow university student. We opted for intercollegiate student housing, which gave us the opportunity to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and shared experiences — something that could have been more challenging in private rentals.
Another key factor for me was living near grocery stores. The presence of supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op nearby streamlined daily shopping, especially during hectic exam times. For more economical choices, retailers like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are excellent alternatives. Being near essential shops and pharmacies greatly enhances convenience and efficiency in daily life.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s rich cultural tapestry is evident in its various ethnic communities, each providing a distinctive ambiance. Many international students seek neighborhoods that evoke feelings of home. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Additionally, Chinatown in the West End presents a bustling assortment of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples showcase just a fraction of London’s community-centric neighborhoods.
Ultimately, the optimal place to live in London hinges on your individual needs and preferences. As you seek a new abode in this city, appreciate its diversity, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish all that this remarkable city has to offer.