Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have acquired valuable perspectives throughout this time. London is a dynamic city, not just regarding its vast selection of living arrangements but also for the diverse communities that inhabit it. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student housing and private rentals offer various options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, alongside the amenities provided and their accessibility to public transportation.
In my search for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six circular zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London is equipped with a superior transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which allows for effortless navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can amount to up to £5.25 per day. I preferred walking short distances over taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to the university much more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. The fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary depending on the distance and fare system of each train operator. The prominent attractions in central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from various cultural backgrounds and a similar age range, a mix that is harder to find in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was important for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich mosaic of various neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their native cultures. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music vibe. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living options, discover cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.