Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this period isn’t extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its wide array of living arrangements but also its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible lodgings online, verify amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a room, I preferred a location in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zone journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have lowered commuting costs to the university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail operate in areas extending beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London boasts significant attractions, which results in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I was inclined toward intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops within reach saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, showcasing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation offerings, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.