Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. It may not seem like a long duration, but I’ve gained a wealth of experience during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an array of housing alternatives and various communities. Students find themselves with plenty of options available. Both dormitories and private living spaces feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio rentals, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in checking out potential living arrangements online, evaluating facilities, and determining nearby public transport availability.
In my endeavor to find a place to stay, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two lying at the core. London’s public transport system is commendable, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel across zones straightforward. I sought to keep my travel expenses low, as commuting between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of individual train operators. Central London’s prime attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a mix that is often less accessible in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a strong South Asian presence with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a sample of community hotspots.
The ideal neighborhoods in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.