Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not appear to be a long duration, I have gained several insights throughout this period. London is an energetic metropolis, recognized not only for its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both university accommodations and private housing offer a range of solutions, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, check for amenities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and transit between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones could reach up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, connecting to areas outside central London. Prices for 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. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which substantially lessened our rent burden. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves valuable time on chores, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students desire familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a lively district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diverse housing choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.