Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve picked up a few insights. London is a lively metropolis, renowned not only for its varied accommodation styles but also for its rich diversity in communities. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips, as both student residences and private lodgings provide possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective lodgings online, including features and public transport connections.
During my quest for a living space, I aspired for a room in Central London to stay close to major attractions, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transportation network is outstanding, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes commuting between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, thus opting to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions outside the Underground, reaching zones beyond central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each rail company. The high living costs are a result of Central London’s key attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we shared a room, which helped us save considerably on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, something that might have been more challenging in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are readily available, alongside more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students crave a sense of connection to their homeland within London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is home to a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations to inhabit in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.