Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve gathered some valuable experiences. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a wide range of housing choices and varied communities. Students have countless options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can rise to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare regime of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London lead to high living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, drastically cutting down rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is no easy task. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is known for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London boasts a vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community areas.
The best areas to settle in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When browsing for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.