Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone living in London. While this time frame may seem brief, I’ve harvested various insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its array of housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, including the amenities provided and proximity to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel costs as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily, thus opting to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card choices have made university travels more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The abundance of major attractions in Central London drives up living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination less frequently found in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Convenient access to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be demanding. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students in London seek a connection to their home cultures. Southall in West London boasts a sizeable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. In the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of culturally rich areas.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and variety in accommodation, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.