Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering

Recently, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. While it might not appear extensive, I’ve gained significant insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its vast selection of housing options but also because of its myriad of communities. Students have a plethora of choices nearby. Both student residences and private accommodation present options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential accommodations online, complete with amenities and distance to public transport.

In my quest for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central London area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The presence of major attractions in Central London drives up living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which might have been more difficult through private rentals.

Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.

Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.

The optimal areas to inhabit in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the richness and diversity of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.

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