Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While it may not seem like an extensive period, it has provided ample opportunity to gather useful insights. London is a bustling, vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its diverse housing options but also by the lively communities residing within. Students here have an abundance of choices, from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite rooms, private studios, shared flats, and house shares. Home students can easily organize in-person viewings, whereas international students frequently depend on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to investigate accommodation options online, evaluate amenities, and understand transport links.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to find a room in Central London, desiring proximity to key attractions, social venues, and, crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London’s transport system is structured into six concentric zones, with zones 1 and 2 encompassing the heart of the city. The city boasts an exceptional public transport network—including the Underground, buses, and trains—making navigation relatively easy. Nonetheless, I aimed to keep travel costs to a minimum, as commuting across zones can total up to £5.25 daily. I often preferred walking shorter distances over taking a bus or tube. Fortunately, student Oyster cards provide discounted fares, making everyday commuting more economical. For longer journeys, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, although fares vary by distance and operator.
Residing in Central London comes at a considerable cost. To alleviate expenses, I chose to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodation, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar ages—an aspect that can be harder to find in private rentals.
Another priority was proximity to grocery stores. Prominent supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland cater well to students looking to save. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies proved to be particularly convenient during hectic exam periods when every minute counts.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be a daunting task. London’s cultural diversity is showcased through its numerous ethnic enclaves. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke feelings of home. For instance, Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London boasts a rich Afro-Caribbean culture and a lively music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End serves as a vibrant centre for Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural festivities. These examples are merely a glimpse of the dynamic communities spread throughout the city.
In conclusion, the optimal living location in London is contingent upon your individual preferences and interests. As you search for a new home in this city, immerse yourself in its diversity, traverse its cultural neighbourhoods, and relish all that this magnificent city has to offer.