Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of living in London. Though it may not appear extensive, I’ve accumulated a number of insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by a wide array of housing choices but also by its dynamic communities. Students are presented with an abundance of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer various types of living arrangements, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to inspect potential homes online, review provided amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain in proximity to prominent sights, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which allow for straightforward navigation and travel among zones. Personally, I sought to lower travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas beyond Central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to key attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate housing to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to fundamental shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students residing in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new accommodations in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.