Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, not only because of its range of housing options but also due to its varied communities. Students find numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students living at home can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day; therefore, I opted to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered the costs for commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, covering areas outside central London, with fares fluctuating based on distance and the fare structure of the train provider. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major tourist spots. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op exist alongside more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities form a key part of its cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall in West London boasts a considerable South Asian population, with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is packed with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to live in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of housing options, explore cultural hotspots, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.