Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently completed nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, known not only for its array of living spaces but also for the multicultural communities that thrive here. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both student residences and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to be close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s facilities. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb public transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The prevalence of major attractions in Central London elevates living costs. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, thereby significantly lowering our rent. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being in proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on daily tasks, especially during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mix of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, with numerous 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 heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are simply a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.