Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this period may not seem extensive, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students enjoy a plethora of alternatives right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide an array of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students have platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential residences online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport options.
During my hunt for a place to stay, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel among zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas that extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Travel costs for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The expenses of living in Central London are elevated due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being situated near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London search for similarities to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. While on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.