Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, it has provided me with ample opportunities to grasp the essence of life in this dynamic city. London boasts a wealth of culture and diversity while presenting a broad range of housing possibilities. Students can conveniently find accommodations that meet their requirements, be it student halls or private leases. Options vary from ensuite rooms and private studios to shared residences and house shares. Domestic students typically arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to explore available options, check facilities, and evaluate transport links online.
During my quest for a place to stay, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. My goal was to be near key attractions, social venues, and, most crucially, Imperial College’s campus. London is categorized into six concentric transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being at the core. Thanks to the city’s efficient public transport system—including the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains—traversing around is quite manageable. Nonetheless, travel expenses can accumulate; daily inter-zonal travel might cost approximately £5.25. To save on costs, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transport. However, with student discounts on Oyster cards, commuting becomes more budget-friendly. Besides the Tube, services like the London Overground and National Rail extend beyond Central London, though ticket prices vary based on distance and train operators.
Residing in Central London comes with higher costs, but I was lucky to share a room with a friend, which allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Access to grocery stores was another key factor for me. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are abundant, while economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also present. Living near essential shops and pharmacies is especially handy during hectic exam times when every minute counts.
Selecting the right neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s rich cultural diversity is visible in its numerous ethnic communities. Many international students gravitate towards areas that evoke a sense of home. For instance, Southall in West London has a considerable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture and energetic music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, presents a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of the city’s lively community centers.
In the end, the ideal location to reside in London hinges on your personal preferences and interests. When seeking a new home, embrace the city’s diversity, explore its cultural neighborhoods, and take full advantage of everything this amazing city has to offer.