Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained several insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its rich communities. Students enjoy a wide range of choices at their fingertips. Both shared and private accommodations, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares, are readily available. Home students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential accommodations online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel among the zones. To minimize travel expenses, especially since inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have helped lower university travel costs. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services connect areas outside the Underground, extending their reach to zones beyond central London. Fares for travel between zones differ based on distance and the individual fare structures set by each train company. The prominence of major attractions in Central London contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I found a friend to attend university with, and we chose to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a demographic less likely to be found in private listings.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities within London play an integral role in its cultural landscape, creating a diverse array of neighbourhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London is notable for its extensive South Asian community, featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese culinary establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best locations for staying in London are contingent upon your personal interests and requirements. While seeking a new home in London, immerse yourself in the variety and depth of the city’s accommodation options, traverse cultural districts, and embrace the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.