Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its various housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of opportunities right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private housing present options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, view available amenities, and assess their proximity to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, vibrant social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London boasts a superb public transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can accumulate to £5.25 daily. Hence, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Living in Central London comes with significant costs due to its popularity, but thankfully I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably alleviated our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of a similar age group—a combination that’s often harder to find in private residences.
The proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave boasting numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The preferable areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. While seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.