Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have acquired several insights. London is a bustling metropolis, distinguished not only by its varied housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both institutional housing and private rentals feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential lodging online, verifying amenities, and evaluating accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room rental in Central London to remain close to key sightseeing spots, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making city navigation and travel between zones simple. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel fluctuate depending on distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly alleviating rental expenses. I favored inter-collegiate student accommodations in hopes of interacting with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mixture less prevalent in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving for errands, particularly during exam sessions.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural richness, offering a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, perched in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for new living arrangements in London, embrace the city’s myriad accommodation alternatives, discover cultural clusters, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.