Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Though this may not seem like an extensive period, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is an energetic city, known for its multitude of housing options as well as its rich variety of communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up viewings for apartments, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view available accommodations online, complete with details on the amenities and public transport connections.
In my quest for suitable lodging, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to be near key attractions, vibrant social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are a result of its prominent attractions. Luckily, I studied with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age range, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home nation while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, including Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London boasts a strong Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music atmosphere. Centrally located in London’s West End, Chinatown features an array of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
Choosing the ideal areas to reside in London hinges on your personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.