Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the nine-month mark of living in London. Although this isn’t a long time, I’ve picked up a few insights. London is a lively city, not only with its diverse accommodation options but also with its vibrant communities. Students have plenty of choices at their doorstep. Both student housing and private accommodation offer various options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can easily book apartment viewings, while international students can use sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to view potential accommodations online, check amenities, and find nearby public transport links.
While searching for a place to live, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be close to major attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an excellent transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I wanted to reduce travel costs since inter-zonal travel can be up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of using buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made university commutes more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services cover areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare structure of each train company. Central London offers major attractions, which makes living costs high. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly saving on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to meet students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix harder to find in private properties.
Living near grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; cheaper options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighbourhood is challenging. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, offering a rich tapestry of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students in London seek the familiarity of their home country. Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. In South London, Brixton is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively enclave with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few examples of community neighbourhoods.
The best areas to live in London depend on your interests and needs. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and enjoy the convenience and excitement of this remarkable city.