Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained considerable insight. London is an energetic metropolis, not just because of its varied housing possibilities but also its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private residences provide various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment showings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view prospective rentals online, check facilities, and locate nearby public transport options.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key sites, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the core being zones one and two. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to travel throughout the zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traversing between zones could cost up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card fares have significantly lowered commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside of the Underground system, extending into zones beyond the central area. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London features major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to cohabit in a shared room, which substantially reduced our rent. I favored residing in intercollegiate student housing, hoping to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—something harder to achieve in private accommodations.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging task. The numerous ethnic communities in London are pivotal to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of familiar surroundings from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian populace featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These illustrate just a glimpse of the community neighborhoods available.
The optimal places to stay in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.