Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired several insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, notable not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both university housing and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite restrooms, private and shared 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 their prospective homes online, assess amenities, and locate the closest public transit connections.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize transportation expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. London Overground and National Rail services also extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure established by each train operating company. Central London hosts primary attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share accommodations, significantly cutting down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings, aiming to connect with students from varied backgrounds and of similar age, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital amenities like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a pivotal role in its cultural landscape, offering a diverse range of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music environment. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is home to numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and energy of this extraordinary city.