Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it’s a short time, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its range of housing options but also its multifaceted communities. Students have various selections available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, check available features, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies travel and navigation between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, which led me to choose walking over public transport for shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. The costs for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Living expenses in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, providing a vibrant array of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, replete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End boasts numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation, welcome London’s diverse housing opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.