Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my time in London. Although it may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights during this period. London is a vibrant city, renowned not only for its array of living accommodations but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, including facilities and closeness to public transit.
In my hunt for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between various zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach as high as £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than opting for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services span areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of each rail operator. The steep living costs associated with Central London’s major attractions are noteworthy. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and within the same age group—something less common in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiar cultural surroundings. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with an array of Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the vibrant heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an abundance of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These examples illustrate just a few of the vibrant community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. As you seek a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.