Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have gained valuable perspectives during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its diverse housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices to consider. Options for student housing and private rentals feature a range of amenities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential homes online, examine available facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my search for a place to reside, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, nightlife, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can cost up to £5.25 each day. I preferred walking over taking buses or the tube for shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have enhanced the affordability of university journeys. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, serving areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary by distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs associated with Central London’s major attractions can be daunting. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a diverse mix that can be harder to find in private rentals.
For me, living close to grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities within London are fundamental to its cultural identity, providing a vibrant array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling location filled with various Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.