Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this period may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered some perspectives throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its myriad accommodation choices but also due to its varied communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide a range of possibilities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore potential housing online, evaluate the amenities provided, and consider the closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services span beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London’s key attractions contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which led to significant rent savings. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more difficult to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite daunting. The ethnic communities in London are key to its cultural fabric, contributing to a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub featuring many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most desirable places to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When embarking on the search for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.