Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable knowledge in this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied housing choices but also its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide a range of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, review amenities, and identify nearby public transport links.
During my quest for housing, my objective was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. Hence, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, covering zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on the distance traveled and the fare policies of each train operator. The central area of London is home to major attractions, which contributes to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, contributing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. In the center of London’s West End, Chinatown teems with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are determined by your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation choices, discover the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.