Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve accumulated a few observations. The city is bustling, known not only for its wide range of living arrangements but for its energetic communities as well. Students are presented with abundant opportunities. Both student residences and private living spaces offer various selections, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Current students can easily schedule apartment tours, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, review available amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, my objective was to secure a room in Central London for proximity to key landmarks, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has a remarkable transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify navigating and traveling across zones. Personally, I sought to keep travel expenses low since commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zonal transit on these services differ based on distance and the pricing system of each train company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly cut down on rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is often harder to find in privately rented properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The convenience of being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are central to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, retail stores, and cultural events. These examples represent just a few of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to live in London are influenced by personal preferences and needs. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance in accommodation choices, discover the cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.