Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although it is not an extensive period, I have gained significant insights. London is lively, not only in its varied living arrangements but also within its communities. Students have a multitude of options available nearby. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, assess facilities, and discover local public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I desired a room situated in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system is outstanding, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London is home to prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to encounter in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity from their native countries within London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.