Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my stay in London. Although it’s a brief period, I have gained some insights. London is a bustling metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of options available nearby. Both student residences and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections nearby.
During my hunt for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside the core of London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively hub with Chinese restaurants, retail outlets, and cultural happenings. These illustrate examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and necessities. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.