Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a brief duration, my experiences have been substantial. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a variety of housing options and a multitude of communities. Students have an abundance of choices, from student accommodation to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students from the UK can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can leverage websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing options online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for a place to stay, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, including the underground, buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and movement between zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal travel, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living expenses in central London are balanced out by its numerous attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic enclaves play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home countries within London. Southall in West London has a sizable South Asian community enriched with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End is home to countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and necessities. While looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.