Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may appear brief, I have accumulated several insights throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, fueled not just by its varied housing options but also by its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student housing and private accommodations present a range of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their forthcoming accommodations online, including the amenities provided and distance to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, my goal was to find a room to rent in Central London, so I would be near major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I wished to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operating company. The high living costs near Central London’s primary attractions are a reality. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age demographics, a mix that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for familiarity with their home nation. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The finest areas to inhabit in London largely depend on personal interests and needs. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.