Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might seem like a brief period in the larger context, I’ve gained a considerable amount of insight into the city. London is an exceptionally vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its extensive housing options but also by the lively communities that inhabit it. Students have a plethora of choices, spanning from student accommodations to private leases, including ensuite rooms, personal studios, shared apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up in-person viewings, while those from overseas frequently depend on websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to browse listings online, evaluate amenities, and consider transport connections.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London. My goal was to be near prominent sights, social venues, and critically, the campus of Imperial College. The city is segmented into six concentric transport zones, with Zones 1 and 2 encompassing the heart of the city. Thanks to the outstanding public transport network — which includes the Underground (Tube), buses, and trains — navigating London is relatively straightforward. Nevertheless, travel costs can accumulate; daily inter-zonal fares can reach as high as £5.25. To economize, I often opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. That being said, discounted Oyster card options significantly ease commuting expenses to the university. In addition to the Tube, the London Overground and National Rail lines extend to areas beyond the central zones, with pricing varying according to distance and the service provider.
Residing in Central London comes with a significant financial obligation, but I managed to lower my expenses by sharing a room with a fellow university student. We chose intercollegiate student housing, intending to interact with other students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges — a quality that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
The location of grocery stores was another crucial consideration for me. Well-known supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland present excellent savings. Being close to essential shops and pharmacies proved particularly advantageous during hectic exam periods when every moment counted.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood can be quite challenging. London’s cultural richness is showcased through its numerous ethnic communities, each providing its unique vibe. Many international students lean towards areas that reflect their homelands. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, boasting numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, showcases a robust Afro-Caribbean culture alongside a vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, situated in the West End, is a thriving center of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of the many community-oriented neighbourhoods scattered throughout the city.
In the end, the ideal living space in London hinges on your individual tastes and priorities. While searching for a new home here, immerse yourself in the city’s diversity, explore its cultural pockets, and make the most of the remarkable opportunities that London presents.