Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this might not be a lengthy period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students find ample options conveniently available. Both student residences and private rentals feature a range of choices such as ensuite and suite-style bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse future accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate the nearest transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation across the zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend their reach beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside the central zones. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train company. Central London features many major tourist spots, contributing to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended the university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and the same age group, a combination less commonly found in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for familiarity with their native countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is home to countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-based neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, cherish the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.