Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residency in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve acquired valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its wide array of housing options but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Options for student living and private housing include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to check out potential homes online, assess the facilities, and identify the closest public transport routes.
Diving into the housing search, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transportation network is outstanding, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I aimed to minimize my commuting expenses since travelling between zones can run up to £5.25 a day. Therefore, I opted for short walks instead of using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas in the outer zones. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structures of the respective train operating companies. With a plethora of attractions in Central London, living expenses can be quite steep. Luckily, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which led to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play an integral role in its cultural identity, showcasing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London find comfort in their country’s familiarity. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton boasts a notable Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples from the community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London largely depend on your interests and requirements. As you search for a new home in London, savor the diversity and abundance of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural pockets, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this exceptional city.