Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I have gathered several observations throughout this time. London is a dynamic city, characterized not just by its varied housing possibilities but also by its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing present various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective housing online, complete with amenities and distances to public transport.
In my hunt for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superior transit system encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could incur costs of up to £5.25 each day. I preferred to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodations, which considerably lowered our rent. I leaned toward intercollegiate student housing, wishing to connect with peers from various backgrounds—a mix that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was imperative for me. Common supermarket chains consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential places such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their homelands within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic area boasting a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are simply a few representations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London greatly depend on personal preferences and requirements. When in search of a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.