Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While it might seem brief, I have gathered considerable insights during this duration. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its variety of living arrangements but also by its lively communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students based in the UK can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible housing options online, alongside the provided amenities and accessibility to public transport.
As I pursued my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near main attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding public transport system, which includes the tube, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel costs as traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have enhanced affordability for university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network to zones outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operating company. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the opportunity to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is often harder to find in private residences.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. The predominant supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps to save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play an integral role in its cultural framework, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, highlighted by Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These exemplify just a few of the community neighborhoods available.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.