Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a variety of housing choices and communities. Students have numerous options, including student residences and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover public transport connections.
During my search for a place, I targeted a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is arranged into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation throughout the city. To mitigate travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made travel to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, with fares fluctuating based on distance and train company pricing. The high living costs around major attractions in Central London can be offset by sharing a room with a friend, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which can be more difficult through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, creating diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their native country. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is home to countless Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of vibrant communities.
The ideal areas to reside in London are influenced by your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new place to live, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy the city offers.