Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period may not seem extensive, it has been quite enlightening. London is a bustling city, characterized not only by its variety of living arrangements but also by its lively communities. Students have numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, including the facilities available and their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying the process of moving through and between zones. I sought to minimize my transportation expenses since traveling between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have rendered university commuting more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem from its significant attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, allowing us to save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are available, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps to save time on errands, especially during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities form a crucial element of its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their native cultures. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.