Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London pulsates with energy, offering not only varied accommodation choices but also vibrant communities. Students find ample options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing present selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse future housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
During my hunt for a place, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I set a goal to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. Hence, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have lowered university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare schedule of individual train companies. Central London is home to numerous attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I went to university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, allowing us to save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural tapestry, providing a variety of neighborhoods. A significant number of international students look for a glimpse of their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London boasts a prominent Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To secure a new home in London, take advantage of its varied accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.