Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained valuable insights. London is a lively city, known not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its diverse communities. Students have numerous choices readily available. Both student residences and private lodgings present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their potential accommodations online, checking amenities, and discovering public transport connections.
During my hunt for a living space, I aimed for a room in Central London to be near major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Due to the presence of major attractions in Central London, living expenses can be high. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; lower-cost alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End provides Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new place to live in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.