Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While that might not appear to be a lengthy period, it has been sufficient to gain substantial insights into life within this vibrant city. London is not only abundant in culture and history but also presents a broad spectrum of accommodation choices for students. Whether you are in search of student housing or private rentals, there’s a range of options available—from ensuite rooms and shared flats to studio apartments and house shares. For domestic students, scheduling viewings is quite simple, while international students can browse listings and amenities online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom. These websites also offer valuable details about transport connections and local facilities.
During my quest for accommodation, I prioritized finding a room in Central London. I wanted to be in close proximity to the city’s key attractions, social hotspots, and, most critically, Imperial College London. The city is categorized into six travel zones, with Zones 1 and 2 being the most central. The comprehensive public transport system—including the Underground, buses, and trains—facilitates easy navigation. However, commuting between zones may incur substantial costs, with daily travel across zones costing as much as £5.25. To economize, I frequently opted to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nonetheless, student discounts on Oyster cards help make commuting more budget-friendly. The London Overground and National Rail services additionally extend beyond the Underground, linking outer zones with the central city. Fares fluctuate based on distance and the rail operator.
Residing in Central London can be pricey, but I was fortunate enough to be studying alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room. This arrangement significantly lowered our rent. I chose to stay in intercollegiate student accommodation, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics—something that’s often harder to achieve in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was another key consideration for me. Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are widely accessible, while budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland provide excellent value. Being near essential shops and pharmacies proved particularly convenient during hectic exam periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood in London can be daunting, given the city’s remarkable diversity. Numerous international students tend to flock to areas that mirror the culture and community of their home nations. For instance, Southall in West London is renowned for its vibrant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Meanwhile, Chinatown in the West End showcases a rich variety of Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural happenings. These neighbourhoods are merely a few illustrations of the city’s multicultural environment.
In the end, the ideal place to reside in London is influenced by your individual needs and preferences. Whether you are attracted to cultural communities, proximity to campus, or economical living, London has something to provide. Embrace the city’s diversity, explore its numerous neighbourhoods, and relish everything this remarkable location has to offer.