Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve gained some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis that presents a variety of housing options and communities. Students enjoy numerous alternatives right at their fingertips, ranging from student accommodations to private lodgings, including rooms with ensuite and suite facilities, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse their prospective living spaces online, review amenities, and discover local public transport connections.
In my quest for a place to stay, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across various zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside the central part of London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London features prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while at university allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Commonly found supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native countries within London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area with Chinese dining, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence, welcome the diversity and richness of London’s housing alternatives, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.