Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gained a considerable amount of experience. London is an energetic city, known not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have numerous options right at their doorstep. Both university housing and private residences provide a range of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to secure 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 most central being zones one and two. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. Central London features major attractions, which contributes to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university along with a friend, and we decided to share accommodations, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a semblance of their own country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These serve as just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodation in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the advantages and thrill of this extraordinary city.