Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant city, not merely for its varied housing selections but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature offerings like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective residences online, assess amenities, and find nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for a living space, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, aids in navigating the city and traveling between zones. To economize on travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary depending on distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The popularity of Central London’s major attractions leads to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly cut down on rent. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that is harder to encounter in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to indispensable stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is complex. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is an animated area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.