Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive period, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant city, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students have abundant options available right at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and discover nearby public transport links.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, opting to walk over short distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to 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 fare structure of each operating train company. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to the major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, allowing us to save significantly on rent. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from varied backgrounds and the same age group, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps to conserve time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural tapestry, showcasing a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students seek to find a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, has a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an animated enclave brimming with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few instances of community neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its accommodation selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.