Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not solely for its assortment of housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives available. Both student residences and private lodgings present choices such as ensuite and suite baths, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore their prospective homes online, along with the available amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London’s exceptional transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel costs since inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk for short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services serve regions outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London, hosting significant landmarks, results in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended the university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers of various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is rarer in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during the examination period.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for the comfort of their native culture. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, stores, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.