Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While the duration may seem short, the knowledge I’ve gained is significant. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have numerous choices readily available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide an array of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential living arrangements online, showcasing the amenities available and their accessibility to public transport.
As I searched for accommodations, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transport network is outstanding, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones easy. I aimed to minimize my commuting expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structure set by individual train operators. Central London boasts major attractions, contributing to higher living costs. Luckily, I started university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which resulted in considerable rent savings. I inclined towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a complex choice. London’s multicultural communities are essential to its cultural identity, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London seek a sense of familiarity akin to that of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community replete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional boutiques. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, centrally positioned in London’s West End, serves as a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. As you search for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.