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 be extensive, my experiences have been substantial. London is dynamic, presenting a variety of living arrangements and communities. Students have a broad range of options, from student dorms to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover public transport connections.
In my search for housing, I targeted renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground, buses, and trains, makes it easy to get around. I preferred to walk short distances to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. Oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, with pricing changing according to distance and the fare structures of train companies. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend, which greatly lowered my rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is more challenging in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities enhance its cultural landscape, providing various neighbourhoods. Many international students look for familiarity akin to home. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese dining, retail, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the city’s accessibility and vibrancy.