Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated nine months residing in London. While it may not appear to be a lengthy duration, this time has allowed me to gain some important perspectives. London is an ever-evolving city, characterized not only by its extensive range of housing options but also by the various communities that reside within it. Students have numerous choices available to them. Whether you’re considering student accommodations or private rentals, you’ll encounter options such as ensuite rooms, studios, shared flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, whereas international students frequently depend on sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom to research properties online, evaluate facilities, and examine transport connections.
During my quest for a place to live, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. I aimed to be near the city’s key attractions, vibrant social scenes, and, most critically, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric travel zones, where Zones 1 and 2 encompass the most central regions. Thanks to the city’s outstanding public transport network—including the Tube, buses, and trains—navigating the city is relatively simple. However, travel expenses can mount rapidly; daily travel between zones can reach £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or train. Nevertheless, discounted Oyster card options have significantly reduced my commuting costs to university. Beyond the Underground, services like the London Overground and National Rail expand even further, reaching areas outside the central zones, although fares differ based on distance and provider.
Residing in Central London has its advantages, but it also entails elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I managed to share a room with a friend, which substantially lowered our rental costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with other students from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something that can be more challenging to find in private rentals.
Another critical factor for me was proximity to grocery stores. Major supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent savings. Having essential retail outlets nearby is incredibly convenient, especially during busy periods, such as exam season, when time is of the essence.
Selecting the ideal neighbourhood in London can be a challenging choice. The city’s rich cultural tapestry is evidenced by its diverse ethnic communities. Numerous international students seek areas that evoke a sense of familiarity. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its lively South Asian community, boasting Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End presents a lively hub of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivals. These are merely a few examples of the many community-centric neighbourhoods throughout the city.
In the end, the optimal location to live in London is contingent on your individual preferences and requirements. As you embark on the search for your new home, immerse yourself in the city’s diversity, explore its cultural enclaves, and relish everything this remarkable city has to offer.