Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not sound lengthy, I’ve acquired substantial knowledge over this period. London is a dynamic city, celebrated not just for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of opportunities at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals offer numerous choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can efficiently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized 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 across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses as crossing zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to stroll short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. Inter-zone ticket prices differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living costs near Central London’s main attractions can be elevated. Thankfully, I was attending university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds and a similar age group, which is often challenging to find in private rentals.
It was vital for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be a challenging choice. London’s cultural diversity, enriched by its ethnic communities, is essential to its societal fabric, offering a vibrant array of neighbourhoods. Many international students in London look for a connection to their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, filled with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the centre of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London are influenced by your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.