Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residency in London. Though this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained insights during my time here. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students encounter numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both university housing and private rentals provide selections like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can seamlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students browse prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate the nearest public transportation options.
In my quest for a residence, I targeted a room rental in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s grounds. The city is structured into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to move around and between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenditures since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than catch a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground’s network, extending to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to premier attractions, resulting in high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend less common in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are available, while more budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London constitute an integral aspect of its cultural diversity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for elements familiar to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal districts for living in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. While seeking a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation alternatives, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.