Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this period may seem brief, it has been quite educational for me. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its diverse communities. There are plenty of choices available for students. Both student accommodations and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential residences online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an efficient transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. While Central London features significant attractions, this results in higher living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups, which is often more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being situated near grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering a variety of localities. Many international students in London seek connections to their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the city’s accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.