Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a short duration, I’ve gained substantial insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing a vast array of housing options and an array of communities. Students have countless selections available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective housing online, check on amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services are determined by distance and the fare structure of each rail operator. The allure of Central London’s main attractions contributes to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age demographics, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private properties.
Living near grocery shops was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students in London look for connections to their native countries. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new dwelling in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.