Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant city, not only because of its varied housing options but also its communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Student residences and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their prospective living arrangements online, check amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
When I was looking for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London for easy access to major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 a day. I opted to walk for shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting for university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services access areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare policies of each train company. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, resulting in significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for familiarity with their home culture. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown sits in the heart of London’s West End, featuring a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.