Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not appear extensive, I have acquired several insights during this interval. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not just for its vast selection of housing alternatives but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student housing and private accommodations present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange flat viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent sites, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to decrease travel expenses since crossing zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was critical for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home nation while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling locality filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a handful of illustrative community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.