Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a fair amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated for its wide range of housing options and dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous choices, from student residences to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can explore potential accommodations online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to check facilities and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. The options available with Oyster cards have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside of central London, with fares fluctuating based on distance and the fare policies of train companies. Living in Central London can be expensive due to its attractions, but sharing a room with a friend helped alleviate rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, something that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having convenient access to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are an integral part of its cultural fabric, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students desire a sense of familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population, offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of illustrative community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new place to call home, take in the diversity and abundance of London’s housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.