Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months in London. Although it may not seem like a long period, I’ve gained significant insights. London is dynamic, not only for its varied accommodation choices but also for its diverse communities. Students have a wealth of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students have the ease of scheduling apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring future housing online, reviewing amenities, and accessing public transport information.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to stay close to popular attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a strong transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating smooth movement between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can be as high as £5.25 per day. Hence, I opted to walk short distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more affordable. Furthermore, services like London Overground and National Rail operate beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London features major attractions, which contributes to higher living costs. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with individuals from various backgrounds who share my age group, a demographic mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores facilitates quick errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London are key to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence, take advantage of the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.