Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of experiences. London is a dynamic city, presenting a variety of living arrangements and lively neighborhoods. For students, options abound, ranging from student residences to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students have access to platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate public transport links.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. London is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the core area. The city features a robust transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university trips. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the city center. Fees for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and train company pricing structures. The costs of living around key attractions in Central London tend to be high. Fortunately, I shared a room with a friend during university, which helped significantly lower our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and comparable age brackets, a blend that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, providing a mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a touch of familiarity while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent some of the neighborhood communities.
The ideal places to live in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the city’s convenience and energy.