Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although my time here has been brief, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its communities. Students have an abundance of options available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future accommodations online, review amenities, and discover nearby public transport options.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating the city straightforward. I was keen to minimize travel expenditures as inter-zonal journeys can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Living costs in Central London are elevated due to the abundance of major attractions. Fortunately, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant hub filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and needs. As you embark on your quest for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.