Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While nine months may seem brief, my experiences have been plentiful. London is a bustling metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their fingertips. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide a range of options 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 future living spaces online, review facilities, and identify public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. Consequently, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, encompassing areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate, depending on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London is home to numerous attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, leading to significant rental savings. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a feat that would have been more challenging through private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is invaluable for time management, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own set of challenges. The ethnic communities within London are a crucial part of its cultural landscape, providing a multitude of diverse neighborhoods. Most international students in London gravitate towards familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, features a significant South Asian population with an array of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London largely hinge on your personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the richness and diversity of its housing opportunities, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.