Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I’ve gained considerable insights during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can promptly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students browse potential living spaces online, evaluate amenities, and determine distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and commuting across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting fees for university students. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, stretching to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare policies. Central London boasts prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly cut our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend harder to discover in private rentals.
Living close to supermarkets was vital for me. Popular grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their native lands. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a snippet of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London rely heavily on your personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the rich diversity and variety of its housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.