Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have acquired considerable knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students have numerous options readily available. Both university accommodation and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, verify amenities, and access public transportation links.
In my quest for a place to stay, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel across zones. I aimed to minimize transport expenses since traveling between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services operate in areas extending beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been difficult through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential facilities such as grocery stores and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, providing a range of neighbourhoods. Most international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their native country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling enclave with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.