Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I have acquired several insights throughout this time. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices conveniently available to them. Both student accommodations and private residences present a range of possibilities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily organize apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to preview their future homes online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is split into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to travel and navigate between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these trains vary depending on distance and the fare structures of each train company. Central London hosts many top attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly lowering our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that would have been more challenging to find in private properties.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex choice. London’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural richness, creating a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian population with an array of Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London vary according to individual preferences and necessities. When looking for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.