Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a myriad of living arrangements and various communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both university housing and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and home shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, featuring amenities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest to find a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a remarkable public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel among zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel could reach £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare schedule of each operating train company. Central London is home to major attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, resulting in diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area flaunting numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.