Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months in London. Although it’s not a long time, I have gathered a range of experiences. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a plethora of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options, including dormitories and private residences featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students have the convenience of scheduling apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, explore amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my accommodation hunt, I sought to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes moving around and inter-zone travel straightforward. To cut down on travel expenses, which can escalate to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London, with fare prices differing based on distance and train operators’ pricing schemes. The key attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, leading to a marked reduction in rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is trickier to find in privately rented properties.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London is no simple task. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for the comforts of their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community-driven neighbourhoods.
The prime locations for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new abode in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.