Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it’s not a lengthy span, I’ve accrued some observations. London is an energetic city, distinguished not only by its assorted living arrangements but also by its rich array of communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student housing and private residences offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment showings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to examine potential housing online, view amenities, and judge proximity to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal transit can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train company. The allure of Central London’s major attractions adds to the high cost of living. Luckily, being enrolled at university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating connections with students from various backgrounds and ages, a mix less likely to be found in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant mosaic of diverse regions. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their native countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, has a significant South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, centrally located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and necessities. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.