Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residence in London. Although this duration may be brief, I’ve gained a considerable amount of insight. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its various housing alternatives but also by its multicultural populations. Students have a plethora of options to choose from. Both student housing and private living arrangements provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, while sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, featuring details about amenities and closeness to public transit.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be close to significant attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I wished to minimize transportation expenses, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are due to its significant attractions. Luckily, I joined university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near basic necessities such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural diversity, showcasing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.