Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t particularly lengthy, I have accumulated some valuable insights. London is a dynamic city, notable not only for its variety of living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students have a wide array of options at their disposal. Both student residences and private accommodations offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, complete with details on amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which ensures effortless movement and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 each day. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travels on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a companion allowed us to share accommodation, greatly reducing rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Proximity to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s diverse ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students find comfort in seeking familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery establishments, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End of London, houses numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best locales to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diverse range and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.