Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, my experiences have been numerous. London is a dynamic metropolis, known not only for its varied housing possibilities but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with a wealth of options right at their doorstep. Whether it’s student housing or private rentals, there are choices that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and communal living arrangements. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and find public transport links.
During my search for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social facilities, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making traversal and zone-to-zone travel straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inner-zone journeys could reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing bus or tube services. Nonetheless, oyster card fares have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground grid, reaching areas outside Central London. Costs for traveling between zones on these services differ depending on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions result in higher living expenses. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend at university, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds of a similar age, a camaraderie that’s often more challenging to find in private housing.
Living in close proximity to supermarkets was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities play a significant role in its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity akin to their home countries. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown in the West End offers numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few representations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover various cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.