Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While nine months may seem short, I’ve gained valuable experiences. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students can find a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Both university housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and identify the closest public transport links.
In my quest for a place to call home, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since crossing zones could amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, yielding substantial savings on rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in which to live can be difficult. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing diverse living areas. Many international students in London crave a connection to their home culture. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population, showcasing Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a dynamic enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to stay in London hinge on your personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this exceptional city.