Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of residing in London, I’ve garnered a few perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its eclectic mix of communities. There are abundant alternatives available for students. Both student housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, review facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a commendable public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal transport could amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, accessing areas beyond central London. Prices for these services vary with distance and the pricing structure of different train operators. Living in Central London is expensive due to its attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped significantly lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend tougher to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shopping facilities like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home nations in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End showcases numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples highlight just a small selection of community neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place, appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of London’s housing choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.