Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have acquired several perspectives. London is a vibrant city, not just due to its variety of living arrangements but also because of its communities. Students find numerous options available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom help international students to explore potential living spaces online, check amenities, and discover nearby public transportation services.
In my hunt for a place to live, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates moving around and traveling between the zones effortlessly. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university cheaper. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the specific fare structures of each rail operator. Central London is home to major attractions, which results in high living expenses. Luckily, I had a friend at university with whom I decided to share a room, which led to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores, including supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time for errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are a key part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek out connections to their home country within London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples showcase just a few of the community neighborhoods available.
The best places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new home in the city, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.